Are Asian Flowers Eaten By Deer?

Deer are known to be attracted to lilies due to their colorful blooms, enticing fragrance, and well-watered and fertilized foliage. However, they can also eat Asiatic lilies, which are toxic to deer and pose a challenge for gardeners. To prevent deer from devouring these prized blooms, it is essential for gardeners to take proactive measures.

Asian lilies are more deer-resistant than Oriental lilies, as they can be eaten by deer, leading to stunted growth, damaged foliage, and even complete destruction of the plants. To protect your lilies from being eaten by deer, consider fencing off the daylily, which is easy to grow, long-blooming, and colorful. Daylilies are easily tied with hostas and are the number one spot on the list of deer favorite foods.

Lilies are generally high in moisture, young, and succulent plants, but Asiatic lilies are a preferred food source for deer. They have some of the most complex, beautiful, and diverse flowers, but they and true lilies are favorite snacks for deer. The plants grow 18 to 24 inches tall and form from bulbs that get bigger and better every year.

There are several deer-resistant bulbs in the lily family (Liliaceae) that are worth trying in your garden. These include daffodils, calla lilies, alliums, and many other bulbs deer can eat. The only deer-proof plants are plants that are poisonous like daffodils or lily of the valley.

In conclusion, deer are a significant threat to gardens, especially when it comes to Asiatic lilies. To protect your lilies from deer, consider using deer-resistant plants or barriers, as well as understanding deer behavior to ensure the safety and health of your plants.