Do Deer Eat Elderberry? A Gardener’s Guide
The answer is complex: while deer generally avoid elderberry (Sambucus spp.) due to its toxicity and strong scent, their behavior varies based on food scarcity and individual deer preferences. Therefore, deer eating elderberry is possible, especially young plants, but it’s not their preferred food source.
Understanding Deer Feeding Habits
Deer are opportunistic herbivores, meaning they’ll eat what’s available, particularly when food is scarce. While they have preferences, hunger often trumps selectivity. This is crucial to understand when considering whether deer eat elderberry. Their diet typically includes:
- Grasses
- Leaves
- Twigs
- Fruits
- Nuts
- Acorns
- Flowers
Deer preferences also vary based on the time of year. In spring and summer, when foliage is abundant, they may focus on tender leaves and shoots. In fall and winter, when other food sources are limited, they’re more likely to browse on less palatable options. This can increase the likelihood of deer eating elderberry shrubs.
The Appeal (or Lack Thereof) of Elderberry
Elderberry plants contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when ingested. This is what makes them toxic, particularly in the leaves, stems, and roots. While the berries are edible when cooked, the rest of the plant is generally unpalatable to most animals, including deer.
However, the palatability of elderberry can vary depending on the variety and the maturity of the plant. Younger, more tender growth might be more attractive to deer, even with the inherent toxicity. Also, deer in areas with limited food resources may be more inclined to sample elderberry, despite its unpleasant taste.
Factors Influencing Deer Browsing
Several factors influence whether deer will eat elderberry in your garden:
- Deer Population Density: Higher deer populations often lead to increased browsing pressure.
- Availability of Other Food Sources: A lack of alternative food sources increases the likelihood of deer consuming less desirable plants like elderberry.
- Regional Variations: Deer behavior varies regionally. In some areas, deer may be more accustomed to elderberry and therefore more tolerant of its taste and toxicity.
- Plant Age: Younger elderberry plants with more tender growth are generally more vulnerable.
- Individual Deer Preferences: Just like people, deer have individual preferences. Some deer may simply be more adventurous eaters than others.
Protecting Your Elderberry Plants
If you’re concerned about deer eating elderberry in your garden, consider these preventative measures:
- Fencing: A physical barrier is the most reliable way to protect your elderberry plants. A fence at least 8 feet tall is recommended.
- Deer Repellents: Numerous commercial deer repellents are available. These typically work by emitting an unpleasant odor or taste that deters deer. Repellents need to be reapplied regularly, especially after rain.
- Planting Deer-Resistant Companion Plants: Surrounding your elderberry plants with deer-resistant species like lavender, rosemary, or daffodils can help to deter deer.
- Netting: For young plants, netting can provide a temporary barrier against deer browsing.
- Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These devices startle deer with a sudden burst of water, discouraging them from entering the area.
A Comparison of Deer Deterrents
| Deterrent | Effectiveness | Cost | Maintenance | Environmental Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| —————— | ———— | ———– | ———– | ——————– |
| Fencing | High | High | Low | Low |
| Deer Repellents | Moderate | Moderate | High | Variable |
| Companion Plants | Low to Moderate | Low | Low | Low |
| Netting | Moderate | Low | Low | Low |
| Motion Sprinklers | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
Recognizing Deer Damage
If you suspect deer are eating elderberry in your garden, look for these telltale signs:
- Ragged or torn leaves
- Chewed stems
- Missing buds or flowers
- Deer droppings near the plants
- Deer tracks in the soil
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the specific varieties of elderberry that deer are most likely to eat?
Generally, deer aren’t particularly picky about elderberry varieties if they are driven by hunger. However, younger, more tender varieties with less pronounced scents might be slightly more vulnerable. It’s important to focus on overall deer deterrent strategies rather than relying on varietal resistance alone.
Is there a specific time of year when deer are more likely to browse on elderberry?
Yes. Late fall and winter, when other food sources become scarce, are the times when deer are most likely to eat elderberry, especially if the plant is easily accessible.
How toxic is elderberry to deer? Would it kill them?
While elderberry foliage contains cyanogenic glycosides, the toxicity level is generally not lethal to deer, unless they consume a very large quantity. More often, it will cause digestive upset and deter them from further consumption.
Are there any natural deer repellents that are effective against deer eating elderberry?
Yes, several natural repellents can be effective. These include sprays made from garlic, hot peppers, or rotten eggs. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying repellents.
Will planting multiple elderberry plants together make them more or less attractive to deer?
Planting multiple elderberry plants together is unlikely to significantly affect their attractiveness to deer. Deer are more influenced by the overall availability of food and the presence of deterrents.
How close does a fence need to be to an elderberry plant to be effective?
The fence should completely enclose the elderberry plant and extend several feet beyond its canopy to prevent deer from reaching over or around it.
Can I use human hair or soap to deter deer from eating elderberry?
While anecdotal evidence suggests that human hair and soap can deter deer, their effectiveness is inconsistent and unreliable. Commercial deer repellents and physical barriers are more effective options.
What should I do if I find that deer have damaged my elderberry plant?
First, assess the extent of the damage. If the plant is still healthy, apply a deer repellent and consider installing a physical barrier. Prune any damaged branches to promote new growth.
Are fawns more likely to eat elderberry than adult deer?
Fawns, being less experienced and more opportunistic feeders, might be more likely to sample elderberry. They haven’t yet learned which plants to avoid based on taste and experience.
Does the maturity of the elderberry plant affect its palatability to deer?
Yes, younger elderberry plants tend to have more tender growth, which can make them slightly more attractive to deer, despite the inherent toxicity.
Can I use a dog to deter deer from my property and protect my elderberry plants?
A dog can be an effective deterrent, but its effectiveness depends on the dog’s temperament and training. A dog that barks and chases away deer can help protect your plants, but it requires consistent effort.
What are some deer-resistant companion plants I can plant near elderberry?
Effective deer-resistant companion plants include lavender, rosemary, sage, ornamental onions, and daffodils. These plants have strong scents or textures that deer generally avoid.