Do Deer Eat Nasturtiums: What You Need to Know

Oleh Sonja Huels May 29, 2023 Post a Comment

Are you considering planting nasturtiums in your garden but are worried about deer damage? If so, you're not alone. Many gardeners wonder if deer will eat this beautiful and fragrant flower. In this article, we will explore the topic of "Do Deer Eat Nasturtiums" in detail. We'll cover everything from the nutritional value of nasturtiums to the behavior of deer, and even offer tips on how to protect your garden from these beautiful but destructive creatures.

Nasturtiums are a popular choice among gardeners due to their bright colors and easy-to-grow nature. These flowers are native to South America and come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, and red. They are also a good source of vitamin C and have antibacterial properties.

Deer, on the other hand, are known for their love of gardens and can cause significant damage to plants. They are particularly fond of tender new growth and can quickly strip a plant of its leaves and flowers.

So, the question remains: do deer eat nasturtiums?

Nutritional Value of Nasturtiums

Before we answer that question, let's take a closer look at the nutritional value of nasturtiums. Nasturtiums are a good source of vitamin C, which is important for maintaining a healthy immune system. They also contain high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin, which are antioxidants that can help protect against age-related macular degeneration.

In addition, nasturtiums have antibacterial properties and can be used as a natural remedy for respiratory infections and urinary tract infections.

Do Deer Eat Nasturtiums?

Now, back to the original question: do deer eat nasturtiums?

The answer is yes, deer will eat nasturtiums. However, they are not typically their first choice. Deer prefer plants that are high in protein and have a higher nutritional value. Nasturtiums are relatively low in protein and are not a significant food source for deer.

That being said, if deer are hungry enough, they will eat anything they can find, including nasturtiums. So, if you live in an area with a high deer population, it's best to take precautions to protect your garden.

How to Protect Your Garden

There are several ways to protect your garden from deer damage. Here are a few options:

Fencing: A tall fence around your garden is the most effective way to keep deer out. Make sure the fence is at least 8 feet high, as deer can easily jump over lower fences.
Repellents: There are several deer repellents available on the market, including sprays and granules. These products work by emitting a scent that is unpleasant to deer.
Motion-activated sprinklers: These sprinklers use motion sensors to detect when deer are in the area and spray them with water. This is a humane way to deter deer from your garden.
Companion planting: Planting certain herbs and flowers alongside your vegetables can help deter deer. Some good options include marigolds, lavender, and mint.

Common Misconceptions about Deer and Nasturtiums

There are several common misconceptions about deer and nasturtiums. Here are a few:

Nasturtiums are toxic to deer: This is not true. While nasturtiums do contain some compounds that are toxic to insects, they are not harmful to deer.
Deer only eat certain parts of the plant: Deer will eat any part of the plant, including the leaves, stems, and flowers.
Only female deer eat plants: Both male and female deer will eat plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are nasturtiums easy to grow? Yes, nasturtiums are easy to grow and require minimal care.
What is the best time to plant nasturtiums? Nasturtiums should be planted in the spring, after the last frost.
Do nasturtiums attract bees? Yes, nasturtiums are known to attract bees and other pollinators.
How tall do nasturtiums grow? Nasturtiums can grow up to 12 inches tall.
Can nasturtiums be grown in containers? Yes, nasturtiums can be grown in containers and make a beautiful addition to any patio or balcony.
Are nasturtiums edible? Yes, nasturtiums are edible and have a slightly peppery flavor.
Can nasturtiums be used as a natural remedy? Yes, nasturtiums have antibacterial properties and can be used to treat respiratory infections and urinary tract infections.
What colors do nasturtiums come in? Nasturtiums come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, and red.
How long do nasturtiums bloom? Nasturtiums typically bloom from early summer until the first frost.
Do deer eat other types of flowers? Yes, deer will eat a variety of flowers, including roses, tulips, and lilies.

In conclusion, while deer will eat nasturtiums if they are hungry enough, these flowers are not typically their first choice. Nasturtiums are a good source of vitamin C and have antibacterial properties, making them a valuable addition to any garden.

If you live in an area with a high deer population, it's important to take precautions to protect your garden. This can include fencing, repellents, motion-activated sprinklers, and companion planting.

With these tips, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of nasturtiums without worrying about deer damage.