Deer-Resistance – A Possibility In the Northeast

Deer-resistant plants are a hot topic on the tongues of many gardeners. Most gardeners in the Northeast have a love-hate relationship with deer. Fact or fiction? Do we really have native plants that are pretty as an option? Is there a gardener that has experienced these resistant plants? Are there native plants that are relatively resistant to damaging predators? Oh, the questions are endless.

THE BOOK

Ruth Rogers Clausen and Greg Tepper co-authored a book addressing possible answers to this dilemma. Deer-Resistant Native Plants for the Northeast is a new book that offers alternatives to going gardenless. Ruth Rogers-Clausen is an acclaimed speaker and author. She wrote 50 Beautiful Deer Resistant Plants and other essential books on gardening. Gregory D. Tepper is a professional horticulturist and quite the speaker. Gregory is currently sharing his talents at the Arboretum at Laurel Hill and West Laurel Hill Cemeteries. Having worked together at the Delaware Botanic Gardens, this duo knows deer. Their combined knowledge shines on the pages of this book.

Whitetail deer often haunt commercial job sites. Homeowners have been discouraged by obvious nibbling on a beloved plant. Not having a garden is unthinkable for many people. Many new gardeners worry about the reality of combatting these creatures. The popularity of native plants is undeniable. Gardening with natives has become quite “the” thing. This book offers many options from annuals to shrubs.

The authors first identified common characteristics of most deer-resistant plants. Their combined experience has produced a few native plants that work. This book simply shares its findings for the reader’s benefit. The result is knowing we can create beautiful gardens which are resistant.

PLANT RESOIURCES

This is not a book of plant lists. It identifies characteristics of suggested plants, growing tips, and gorgeous photos. The authors even offer companion planting suggestions. Did you know that ferns are rarely bothered by deer? These authors suggest several to consider including in a shade garden. Let’s not forget the grass, sedge, and shrub options. These native plant suggestions offer mostly unbothered beauty in the garden.

One shrub that has been dependable in the landscape is Virginia sweetspire (Iteaceae). I have grown this shrub in my garden for years. It never occurred to me that it is deer resistant. I just loved the seasonal color and the fragrant blooms. This is a multi-tasking shrub that attracts pollinators. An amazing option for almost any garden.

RESOURCES

These authors leave us with many reliable resources. No need to spend endless hours looking for “the” safe plant. The resource section offers mail-order resources and reading options. Understanding how to choose plants for a deer-resistant garden is not hard. Knowing where to buy is half the battle. Reading for better comprehension is always helpful. Did I mention the useful websites at the end of the book?

This trustworthy duo has written a book that will be useful as we consider our gardens this year. Deer are beautiful frolicking in a natural environment. The garden we want can include resistant plants for beauty. I highly suggest adding this book to enhance your garden experience.

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