The answer is yes, deer are known to feed on a variety of plants including hollyhocks. Hollyhocks are a type of flowering plant that grows tall and produces large, colorful blooms. However, these attractive plants can quickly become a target for hungry deer.
If you are an avid gardener or simply enjoy having a beautiful garden, it’s important to know if deer will eat hollyhocks and what you can do to protect these plants from these herbivores. In this article, we will explore the topic of deer and hollyhocks in greater detail to help you better understand this relationship.
What are Hollyhocks?
Hollyhocks are a type of flowering plant that belong to the Malvaceae family. They are native to Asia, but have been widely cultivated and naturalized in many other regions, including Europe and North America. Hollyhocks are known for their tall stature and large, colorful blooms that can grow up to six inches in diameter.
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Why do Deer Eat Hollyhocks?
Deer are herbivores, which means they feed on plants. In areas where food is scarce, deer will often eat whatever plants are available, including hollyhocks. These plants are a good source of nutrition for deer, providing them with the energy and nutrients they need to survive.
How to Protect Hollyhocks from Deer?
There are several ways to protect hollyhocks from deer. Here are a few options:
Use Deer Repellents: There are various deer repellents available that can help to keep deer away from hollyhocks. Some of these repellents contain natural ingredients like garlic, hot peppers, and vinegar, while others are chemical-based. You can also make your own deer repellent by mixing water, hot sauce, and liquid soap. Simply spray the mixture onto the hollyhocks and surrounding area to deter deer.
Fencing: Fencing can also be used to protect hollyhocks from deer. A fence that is at least 8 feet tall is recommended to keep deer out. You can also use a mesh or chicken wire fence, which can be more visually appealing.
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Plant Hollyhocks in Areas That are Less Attractive to Deer: Another option is to plant hollyhocks in areas that are less attractive to deer. For example, you can plant hollyhocks near areas with strong smells, such as near a compost bin, or near areas with loud noises, like a busy road.
Use Deer-Resistant Plants: Finally, you can also use deer-resistant plants in your garden. There are many plants that deer do not like to eat, such as lavender, rosemary, and daffodils. By planting these deer-resistant plants alongside hollyhocks, you can create a garden that is less attractive to deer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, deer do eat hollyhocks and can quickly damage these beautiful plants. However, there are several ways to protect hollyhocks from deer, including using deer repellents, fencing, planting hollyhocks in areas that are less attractive to deer, and using deer-resistant plants. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or simply enjoy having a beautiful garden, it’s important to understand the relationship between deer and hollyhocks to keep these plants safe and healthy.
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