Do Deer Eat Hardy Kiwi? A Comprehensive Guide
Do deer eat hardy kiwi? The answer is a definite maybe; while not their preferred food, deer will consume hardy kiwi, especially when other food sources are scarce. This guide provides insights on how to protect your kiwi plants.
Understanding the Appeal of Hardy Kiwi
Hardy kiwi ( Actinidia arguta) is a vigorous climbing vine prized for its delicious, grape-sized fruits. They are also attractive plants, offering ornamental value with their lush foliage and fragrant flowers. Growing hardy kiwi is a rewarding experience, but gardeners must be aware of the potential threat posed by deer. Do deer eat hardy kiwi? Unfortunately, yes, they can.
Deer Diet and Hardy Kiwi: A Complex Relationship
Deer are opportunistic feeders, meaning they will consume a wide range of plants depending on availability and preference. Their dietary choices fluctuate throughout the year, influenced by seasonal changes and the abundance of different food sources. While deer may not actively seek out hardy kiwi as their primary food source, they will readily consume it when other options are limited, particularly during the late fall and winter months when natural forage is scarce. Deer find young kiwi leaves, shoots, and even the vines themselves palatable. This makes young kiwi plants particularly vulnerable.
Damage Patterns: Recognizing Deer Browsing
Identifying deer damage is crucial for implementing effective protective measures. Deer typically leave behind telltale signs of their presence, including:
- Ragged edges on leaves: Unlike insects, deer lack upper incisors and tear at vegetation.
- Missing shoots: Young, tender shoots are a favorite target.
- Stripped bark on vines: Deer may rub their antlers against the vines, causing damage or completely stripping the bark.
- Droppings: Deer pellets are a sure sign of their presence.
- Tracks: Hoof prints around the kiwi plants.
Protecting Your Hardy Kiwi from Deer
Several strategies can be employed to protect your precious hardy kiwi plants from hungry deer. These methods can be used individually or in combination for maximum effectiveness:
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Fencing: A physical barrier is the most reliable method. An 8-foot-tall fence is generally recommended to deter deer.
- Consider using woven wire or netting designed specifically to keep deer out.
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Netting: Drape netting directly over the kiwi plants to prevent deer from reaching the foliage. This is most effective for young plants or smaller vines.
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Deer Repellents: Various deer repellents are available, including sprays, granules, and electronic devices.
- Choose a repellent that contains ingredients like putrescent egg solids, garlic, or capsaicin.
- Reapply repellents regularly, especially after rain.
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Plant Selection: Consider planting deer-resistant plants around your hardy kiwi to deter deer from entering the area.
- Examples include daffodils, marigolds, lavender, and rosemary.
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Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These devices detect movement and spray water, which can startle deer and discourage them from browsing.
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Noise Makers: Wind chimes or other noise-making devices may help to deter deer, but their effectiveness can vary.
Common Mistakes and Pitfalls
- Inadequate fencing: A fence that is too short or has gaps will not effectively deter deer.
- Infrequent repellent application: Repellents need to be reapplied regularly to maintain their effectiveness.
- Ignoring deer signs: Failing to recognize deer damage early on can lead to more severe problems.
- Relying solely on one method: Combining multiple protective measures is often more effective than relying on a single strategy.
Long-Term Management Strategies
Successfully protecting your hardy kiwi from deer requires a long-term management approach. This includes:
- Monitoring deer activity: Regularly inspect your property for signs of deer and adjust your protective measures accordingly.
- Maintaining your fence: Regularly check your fence for damage and make repairs as needed.
- Rotating repellents: Deer can become accustomed to certain repellents, so rotate between different products to maintain their effectiveness.
- Pruning: Regular pruning of your hardy kiwi vines will help to maintain their health and vigor, making them less susceptible to deer damage.
FAQ: Addressing Your Concerns About Deer and Hardy Kiwi
Are some hardy kiwi varieties more deer resistant than others?
While there isn’t definitive scientific evidence to suggest specific varieties are inherently deer-proof, anecdotal reports suggest some deer might prefer softer leafed varieties over those with thicker, tougher leaves. Experimentation in your specific region is recommended.
Will deer eat hardy kiwi fruits?
Yes, deer will eat hardy kiwi fruits, especially if they are readily accessible at a low level. While they may not prefer them over other fruit options, they will consume them if food is scarce. Protecting your ripening fruit is crucial.
How high can deer jump?
Deer can jump surprisingly high, typically reaching heights of 8 feet or more. This is why an 8-foot fence is recommended for effective deer exclusion.
What are some other plants that deer love to eat?
Deer have a particular fondness for plants like hostas, daylilies, impatiens, and rhododendrons. Understanding their preferred foods can help you design your garden to be less attractive to deer.
Are there any natural deer repellents that I can make at home?
Yes, several DIY deer repellent recipes exist, often including ingredients like garlic, cayenne pepper, and egg yolks. However, keep in mind that homemade repellents may be less effective and require more frequent application than commercial products.
How do I know if my kiwi plant will recover after deer browsing?
The severity of the damage and the overall health of the plant will determine its recovery. If the browsing is limited to a few leaves and shoots, the plant will likely recover quickly. However, severe damage to the main stem or root system can be fatal.
Will electric fences deter deer from hardy kiwi plants?
Electric fences can be an effective deterrent, but they need to be properly installed and maintained. The fence should be high enough to prevent deer from jumping over it and should be baited with peanut butter or apple slices to encourage them to touch it.
Is it possible to train deer to avoid my hardy kiwi plants?
While it’s difficult to definitively train wild deer, creating an unpleasant environment around your kiwi plants through a combination of repellents, noise makers, and motion-activated sprinklers can make them less likely to browse.
How often should I reapply deer repellent?
The frequency of application will depend on the specific product and weather conditions. Generally, it’s recommended to reapply after every rain or every few weeks. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
What is the best time of year to protect my hardy kiwi from deer?
Protecting your hardy kiwi from deer is a year-round task, but it’s particularly important during the late fall and winter months when other food sources are scarce.
Can I use scarecrows to deter deer?
Scarecrows can be somewhat effective in the short term, but deer are intelligent animals and will eventually realize that the scarecrow poses no threat. Rotating the scarecrow’s position and adding other deterrents can help to maintain its effectiveness.
What is the best overall strategy for preventing deer from eating my hardy kiwi?
The best strategy is a multi-faceted approach that combines physical barriers (fencing or netting), repellents, and careful monitoring of deer activity. This comprehensive approach will provide the best protection for your hardy kiwi plants.