Do Deer Eat Nasturtiums?

Deer are beautiful animals that can add a touch of nature to any garden. However, they can also be a nuisance when it comes to plants. If you're an avid gardener, you may have noticed that some of your plants go missing overnight. This raises the question: do deer eat nasturtiums?

What are Nasturtiums?

Before we answer this question, let's first talk about what nasturtiums are. Nasturtiums are brightly colored flowers that come in shades of orange, yellow, and red. They are native to South America but have become popular all over the world for their beauty and culinary uses. In addition to being edible, nasturtiums are also known for their medicinal properties.

Do Deer Eat Nasturtiums?

The short answer is yes, deer do eat nasturtiums. Nasturtiums are not the deer's first choice of food, but they will eat them if there is nothing else available. This is because nasturtiums are not toxic to deer, and they find them palatable.

Why Do Deer Eat Nasturtiums?

Deer are herbivores and will eat just about anything if they are hungry enough. However, they do have preferences when it comes to food. For example, they prefer plants with high moisture content, such as succulent leaves and stems. Nasturtiums have a high moisture content, which makes them a good source of hydration for deer.

How to Protect Nasturtiums from Deer

If you're a gardener who loves nasturtiums and wants to protect them from deer, there are several things you can do. Here are some tips:

Install a Fence

One of the most effective ways to keep deer away from your garden is to install a fence around it. A fence that is at least eight feet tall will prevent most deer from jumping over it. However, this may not be practical for everyone due to cost or aesthetic reasons.

Spray Repellents

There are many different types of deer repellents available on the market that you can spray on your plants. These sprays contain chemicals that make the plants taste bad to deer. However, they can be expensive and may need to be reapplied frequently.

Plant Deer-Resistant Plants

Another option is to plant flowers and vegetables that deer are less likely to eat. Some examples include daffodils, lavender, and marigolds. This will not only protect your nasturtiums but also add variety to your garden.

Nasturtiums as a Deer Attractant

While deer will eat nasturtiums if they are hungry enough, some people plant them specifically to attract deer to their garden. This is because nasturtiums can act as a "deer magnet," drawing them away from other more valuable plants. If you want to attract deer to your garden, planting nasturtiums can be a good strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What other animals eat nasturtiums?

A: In addition to deer, rabbits, squirrels, and groundhogs may also eat nasturtiums.

2. Are nasturtiums toxic to humans?

A: No, nasturtiums are not toxic to humans. In fact, they are edible and have a peppery taste.

3. Can I plant nasturtiums in a container garden?

A: Yes, nasturtiums grow well in containers and can be a beautiful addition to any patio or balcony.

4. Can I eat the leaves of nasturtiums?

A: Yes, the leaves of nasturtiums are edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish.

5. Can I use nasturtiums for medicinal purposes?

A: Yes, nasturtiums have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties. They are believed to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.

In deer do eat nasturtiums, but they are not their first choice of food. If you want to protect your nasturtiums from deer, installing a fence, spraying repellents, or planting deer-resistant plants can all be effective strategies. However, if you want to attract deer to your garden, planting nasturtiums can be a good strategy.