New Jersey is full of natural beauty—mature trees, rolling lawns, and wooded backdrops. But if you’re a homeowner trying to keep a garden looking nice, you’ve probably battled one very hungry visitor: deer.
These gentle creatures are part of our landscape, but they’re also known for munching their way through shrubs, flowers, and vegetables. If your yard has become a salad bar for local deer, it might be time to rethink what you’re planting.
Luckily, there are plenty of beautiful deer resistant plants that can help you keep your landscape thriving—without becoming a midnight snack.
Why Deer Love New Jersey Yards
New Jersey is home to a healthy deer population. Suburban neighborhoods often border wooded areas, and deer are quick to wander into backyards in search of food—especially when natural food sources are scarce.
In spring and early summer, deer are especially active and looking for tender new growth. Hostas, tulips, and even some evergreens are top of the menu.
The trick is to plant smart. Deer tend to avoid plants with strong scents, fuzzy textures, or bitter tastes. That’s where deer resistant plants come in.
What Are Deer Resistant Plants?
“Deer resistant” doesn’t mean deer-proof. A hungry enough deer might still nibble, especially in winter. But these plants are typically ignored or sampled and quickly rejected.
They’re a great way to reduce damage and protect your investment in landscaping—especially here in Union County and surrounding areas of New Jersey where deer pressure is high.
Best Deer Resistant Plants for New Jersey
Here are some top picks that do well in our local climate and are generally left alone by deer:
🌸 Perennials
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)
Bright and cheerful flowers that bloom from summer into fall. Deer typically avoid them due to their coarse texture.
Russian Sage (Perovskia)
Silvery leaves and lavender-blue flowers with a strong scent that deer don’t enjoy. Low maintenance and drought tolerant.
Catmint (Nepeta)
Not just for cats! It’s a favorite of pollinators and disliked by deer for its aroma.
Coreopsis
Long blooming and easy to grow. Deer usually steer clear of this sunny, daisy-like flower.
🌿 Shrubs
Boxwood
A classic evergreen for structure and hedging. Its bitter taste keeps deer away.
Butterfly Bush (Buddleia)
Attracts butterflies, not deer. Produces long flower spikes through the summer.
Spirea
Hardy and dependable. Produces colorful foliage and flowers—and deer tend to leave it alone.
🌱 Ground Covers & Grasses
Liriope (Lilyturf)
Perfect for edging and ground cover. Tough and unattractive to deer.
Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)
Native ornamental grass that adds height and movement. Deer usually don’t touch it.
Ajuga (Bugleweed)
Low growing with purple-tinged leaves and spring flowers. Spreads easily and resists browsing.
Tips to Keep Deer Out of Your Garden
Even with the right plant choices, there are a few extra things you can do to reduce deer damage:
- Group your deer resistant plants: Deer are less likely to push through unpleasant textures or smells to get to tastier options.
- Use fencing strategically: Even short barriers can discourage deer from specific areas.
- Try scent deterrents: Some homeowners use sprays or hang bars of soap to mask plant aromas.
- Keep bird feeders clean: Spilled seed attracts more than birds—deer will stop by for an easy snack.
Need Help Designing a Deer-Smart Landscape?
Choosing the right plants can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with shady spots, poor soil, or a high deer population. At Caffrey Tree & Landscape, we’ve been helping New Jersey homeowners design resilient and beautiful outdoor spaces for over 25 years.
We know what works—and what doesn’t—in our local neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking for a full planting plan or just need help with seasonal cleanup, we’re happy to jump in.
Want to protect your plants from more than just deer? Our Disease and Insect Control services help keep your landscape healthy and thriving from the ground up.
Rutgers has a comprehensive database ranking plants by deer resistance:
👉 Rutgers NJ Agricultural Experiment Station Deer-Resistant Plants
Final Thought
You don’t have to give up on gardening just because the deer are curious. With the right deer resistant plants, you can enjoy a vibrant yard that holds up through all four seasons.
Want to make a change this season? Let’s talk.