They love humidity, making them great plants in regions prone to humid summers.
But as much as we love ahosta garden, so do deer since they love to eat hostas.
Deer typically leave behind jagged or torn edges, Awot says.
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They do this as they graze along your Hostas, usually in a group.
However, you will also want to think about where the damage is done.
Also, ask yourself if multiple Hosta plants have been eaten at once.
Deer are hungry and will target multiple plants in the same area, Awot says.
If you have extensive damage to your Hosta plantings, deer are the likely cause.
It’s important to also know that other animals could be munching on your Hostas.
These could include rabbits, which tend to eat leaves close to the ground.
Additionally, slugs and snails will leave holes in your Hosta leaves.
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Awot recommends the fence to be at least 8 feet tall.
This is the most effective method for keeping deer away from Hostas.
The challenge with these options is making sure they are high enough to keep out the deer.
Repellents
Commercial repellents made fromblood mealor predator scents may also scare off deer.
Awot explains how theses scents often contain strong odors or tastes that deer do not like.
Plus, they are safe for humans and animals, as they are not meant to harm the deer.
Some examples of strong-scented oils include peppermint, lavender, garlic, and eucalyptus.
But always be sure to test these oils before using them on your Hostas.
Add a few drops of oils to the water and spray the mixture on and around the Hosta garden.
Wind Chimes
Naturally skittish, deer tend to be afraid of new things.
So, introducing a new sound, like wind chimes, can scare away deer.
However, this method may not work with some particular deer groups.
Hostas Plant Alternatives
There are many ways to keep deer from eating your Hostas.
But the best method is building a fence tall enough to keep deer out of your garden.
Hostas are considered toxic to dogs, cats, and horses and will cause gastrointestinal upset.
They are not considered highly toxic to wildlife unless ingested in large quantities.
It depends on the damage.
Awot explains how if it’s not too bad, the Hosta plants will usually come back.
