Deer Proof Cactus

Types

Prickly pear cactus is not a preferred food source for deer. These plants vary in height, ranging from 1 to 20 feet and grow in clumps. Members of the Cactaceae family, prickly pear cactus have long spines that are painful to the touch. Prickly pear cactus is often used as a border plant or in mass plantings. Another species of cactus that is deer resistant is cholla cactus. These flowering plants are often used as a border and it produces colorful blooms. Claret cup cactus is a species of hedgehog cactus and is seldom browsed by deer. These plants produce blooms in bright, showy shades of purple, red, white or yellow that sit atop ribbed cylindrical growths. Claret cup cacti are often chosen for their ability to withstand freezing temperatures.

Placing deer-resistant cacti in your home garden or yard reduces the likelihood of deer browsing and plant injuries. Most deer shy away from cacti because of the sharp, painful spines that produce from the plant. However, no plant is safe from deer browsing if populations are high and the competition for food is fierce. Deer may wander into urban areas to feed when their natural food stores are low.

Deer resistant cacti can add an interesting touch to any yard or garden. If you find deer are still browsing in your yard, you can purchase contact deer repellents to keep them from eating your plants. These products are sprayed on garden plants and discourage deer from feeding. Protective trunk covers are available for trees that are sustaining damage to the bark from deer feeding or scraping. By placing plants in your yard that are less preferred by deer, you reduce the risk of damage to your entire garden.

Fencing your property is the only way to ensure deer cannot enter and feed on your plants. Deer-proof fences must be at least 8 feet high to keep deer out. Some homeowners add peanut butter baits and electricity to their fences to discourage deer feeding. Deer are especially problematic when populations are very high. Homeowners who have tried many control methods and are still suffering damage, may apply for a nuisance permit with their state or county wildlife office.