Stop Deer From Eating Your Roses By Planting These Beautiful Varieties

There are few things more disappointing than having your beautiful roses and other plants eaten by deer. While there are a variety of natural methods to repel deer from your yard and garden, one of the best options is to just grow plants that deer tend to find unappealing. While no plants are entirely deer proof, opting for Virginia roses (Rosa virginiana) or pasture roses (Rosa carolina) over the popular hybrid tea roses (Rosa x hybrid) should decrease the chance of your flowers being decimated by hungry deer.

Not only do both Virginia roses and pasture roses appear to be moderately deer resistant, but both plants are also native to parts of North America. With Virginia roses hardy in zones 3 through 8 and Carolina roses able to survive in zones 4 through 9, they make excellent options for gardeners in large swaths of the United States. While these roses have both been reported to have some deer resistance, it's important to remember that this is not a universal experience and some people have still reported deer damage with these plants, so be sure to take additional precautions against deer if they are a common problem in your area.

Virginia and pasture roses evolved to survive alongside native deer species, and will thrive under similar conditions to most other roses in your rose garden. Both species flourish in full to partially sunny locations and benefit from moist, well-draining soil. Pasture roses are able to thrive in dry conditions as well, and have some drought tolerance. Additionally, pasture roses are a great option for anyone struggling with high humidity or black spot outbreaks in their rose garden. Because Virginia roses and pasture roses are native species, they will also benefit their surroundings, unlike other popular plants like multiflora roses, which are actually an invasive weed.

Not only do these plants have more deer resistance than many other rose varieties, but Virginia roses and pasture roses are considered relatively easy to grow and care for as well. As with most roses, both species still benefit from being pruned and pasture roses can be quite prone to suckering. Taking additional steps to deter deer from destroying your garden with easy DIY solutions like building a simple fence or using a repellent like the I Must Garden Deer Repellent should also help protect your plants.