Deer can be a pain in the neck for gardener and landscapers , as they often graze and nibble on plants , causing terms to our carefully cultivated landscapes . However , when it comes to the Mountain Laurel plant , there is some well news program – deer be given to steer clear of it .
Mountain Laurel ( Kalmia latifolia ) is a beautiful broadleaf evergreen plant bush that is native to easterly North America . It is known for its glossy , leathery leaf and bunch of showy , bell - forge flowers that bloom in tardy give to early summertime . This plant life is a pop choice for gardens and landscaping due to its attractive appearance and ability to thrive in various conditions .
One of the reasons why cervid typically avoid Mountain Laurel is because of its lifelike defense mechanisms . The leaf of this plant contain toxic compound , cognise as grayanotoxins , which are unpalatable and even harmful to deer and other herbivores . These compounds can induce digestive issue and even paralysis in animals that consume them . As a resultant role , cervid have learned to fend off Mountain Laurel , prefer for more palatable food sources instead .
I have personally have the deer - resistant nature of Mountain Laurel in my own garden . Despite having a ample cervid universe in my area , I have never noticed any significant damage to my Mountain Laurel plants . While neighboring plants would often be nibbled on or completely devoured , the Mountain Laurel remained untasted . This has made it a reliable and low-spirited - sustenance addition to my landscape .
It ’s of import to take note that while Mountain Laurel is generally deer - resistant , there may still be instances where cervid may nibble on the works . factor such as grievous winter condition or drought can lead cervid to search less preferred food sources , include Mountain Laurel . to boot , athirst deer or those with modified admittance to other food options may be more likely to sample this works . However , compared to many other plant , Mountain Laurel is still considered comparatively good from cervid browsing .
If you are dealing with a particularly dour deer problem in your area , there are a few additional measures you’re able to take to further deter them from eating your Mountain Laurel plant . One pick is to use deer repellents , such as sprays or granules , which contain strong - smelling meat that deer obtain unpleasant . These repellents can help to mask the attractive scent of the flora and discourage cervid from approaching and flow on it .
Another effective method is to create physical barriers around your Mountain Laurel plants . This can be done by installing fencing or clear around the plants , making it hard for cervid to access them . Be certain to choose a fencing textile that is stalwart and magniloquent enough to foreclose deer from jumping over it . Additionally , regularly visit the fencing for any signs of damage or gaps that may allow deer to sneak in .
While no plant is completely resistant to deer browsing , Mountain Laurel is generally considered deer - resistant due to its toxic leaf . Deer tend to avoid this plant life in favour of more palatable alternative . However , it ’s worth noting that extreme weather conditions or athirst deer may still do some nibbling on Mountain Laurel . demand extra measures such as using repellents or instal physical barriers can help further protect your plants from deer damage .
Caroline Bates
