How to Choose the Right Deer-Resistant Plants for Your Garden

We encourage you to buy plants locally, but if they're not available - buy deer resistant plants online and have them shipped right to your door.

Deer browsing is a huge challenge for many gardeners, and not just those who live out in the country. Even people who live in the suburbs and had previously never spotted a deer in their yards are finding their plants decimated overnight. 

That’s why it's important to grow top-tier plants for a deer resistant garden. Whether you’re looking for annuals, perennials or shrubs, you’ll find some excellent options here. Don't miss our deer resistant EZ Scapes^™ landscape plans below. 

Deer Resistant Plant Lists

Looking for Plants Deer Won’t Eat?

Tired of deer devouring your garden? While no plant is truly deer proof, these four types are less likely to become their next meal:

• Fragrant plants – Strong herbal scents keep deer away.
• Fuzzy-leaved plants – Rough textures aren’t appetizing.
• Toxic plants – Some plants are naturally off-limits.
• Fine-textured plants – Deer prefer lush, broad leaves.

Think your roses are safe because of their thorns? Think again! Learn which plants deer won't eat, and actually work—and which don’t—in the full article: 4 Kinds of Plants Deer Avoid

We've also compiled our most deer resistant shrubs into our Deer Proof^™ line of shrubs that are least likely to be damaged by deer. The plants in this line are recommended for landscapes where deer are a major issue. However, the liklihood of damage will depend on local deer populations and weather conditions. 

Deer Resistant EZ Scapes^™ Landscape Plans

Designing a beautiful deer resistant garden that deer won’t destroy can feel like a challenge—but we’ve made it easy with pre-planned EZ Scapes landscape designs featuring plants deer typically pass by. Whether you need a full sun flower bed or a lush shade garden, these thoughtfully designed combinations take the guesswork out of plant selection.

Browse our deer resistant EZ Scapes for full sun.

Browse our deer resistant EZ Scapes for partial to full shade. 

Deer Resistant Plant Comparison: What Deer Avoid Most

Not all deer resistant plants are created equal! Some plants are rarely touched, while others may be nibbled if food is scarce. Use this guide to find the best options for your garden.

Looking for more detailed rankings?
For a comprehensive, research-backed list of deer resistant plants, check out the Rutgers University Deer-Resistant Plants Database. Their rating system categorizes plants from Rarely Damaged to Frequently Severely Damaged, helping you make the best choices for your deer resistant garden.

Related: Do Deer Eat Hydrangeas?

Frequently Asked Questions

Will deer actually avoid "deer resistant" plants?

Think of deer resistant plants as your garden's first defense — not a guarantee. While deer may prefer other varieties, no plant is completely safe.

Do these plants work in every garden?

Your local deer have their own tastes! Chat with nearby gardeners or your garden center for tried-and-true plants that work in your area.

Why are deer eating my "deer resistant" plants anyway?

Hungry deer aren't picky. During droughts or food shortages, they'll munch on almost anything green — even plants they normally avoid.

When do deer cause the most garden damage?

Watch out in spring and early fall. These are prime browsing seasons when natural food sources are scarce and your garden looks extra tasty.

Should I use repellents with deer resistant plants?

Smart gardeners often do both. Repellents give extra protection, especially for young plants or gardens with frequent deer visitors.

What about attracting pollinators too?

You're in luck! Plants like lavender, salvia, bee balm, and yarrow pull double duty — they attract helpful pollinators while deterring deer.

How high should my fence be?

Deer can jump 8 feet high, so aim for a 8-9 foot tall fence. For smaller spaces, consider angled or double fencing to outsmart these athletic browsers. Also consider that deer rarely jump a fence if they cannot see what is on the other side. Planting tall, dense vegetation on the outside of your fence can help deter deer from jumping over it.