Deer-Resistant Plants

Have a problem with our four-legged friends? While there's no such thing as a plant that's one hundred percent deer-proof (occasionally a rogue deer will munch just about anything),  the plants below have flavors, textures, and smells that deer don't generally like.  That doesn't mean they won't nibble once to test it out, but in general, they leave these varieties alone. 

Astilbe - Adored by butterflies and bees, a gazillion (not the actual number LOL) tiny flowers make up their enchanting feathery plumes. Their foliage is delicate and fern-like....nature's own lace. But don't let their delicate look fool you; these plants are very hardy!  They come in various shades of white, pink, and red. They will grow in full shade but will do best with some dappled sun during part of the day.  Bloom time is late spring/early summer but does vary by plant. Number available: 2 white, 2 pink, 2 red

Columbine - One of the true delights of spring, this enchanting flower adds a touch of ethereal beauty to the landscape. The unique dangling blooms have curving spurs that resemble fairy wings, and these hold nectar that  can nourish hummingbirds, bees, and moths early in the season when few other flowers are blooming. Despite its delicate appearance, Columbine is a low maintenance plant. They are spring bloomers and will die back in the heat of summer, but will happily return the next season!  Number available: 2 pink

Ostrich Ferns - So....I'm not a tall girl at 5'2" but I'm standing in the ferns to give you an idea of how tall and majestic these are on our farm! It's almost primeval, like I expect to see T-Rex advancing around the corner at any moment LOL. Native to North America, these beauties have been gracing forests and gardens for centuries, their timeless beauty captivating generations of nature lovers.  Growing 3-5 feet, they are incredibly hardy, and naturalize easily but not in a way that's invasive. They thrive in shade and in dappled sun.  Number available: SOLD OUT

Leucanthemum (Shasta Daisies) - Like sunshine in floral form, these flowers radiate positivity with their dazzling white petals and golden-yellow centers. I bet you can't gaze at a Shasta Daisy without smiling! These  amazing, sun-loving plants are incredibly versatile, whether planted in borders, mixed with other perennials, or showcased in containers, they will adapt and thrive. Their nectar-rich blooms provide a valuable food source for pollinators. Bloom time is late spring/summer.  Number available: 3

Kniphofia (Red Hot Poker) - This quirky plant is nature's own pyrotechnic display, with flowers that light the landscape with hues of fiery reds, oranges, and yellows. This resilient bloomer will intermittently form spikes from spring right up until fall! While it demands attention with its bold form, it's easy to grow and won't need much of  your attention to stay beautiful!  You'll also find its flowers a bustling hub of activity for pollinators. Originating in South Africa, it has been cultivated in gardens since the 17th century!  Number available: 3

Blackberry Lilly - You'll be captivated by this delightful sun-loving plant! The exotic tiny orange flowers feature red speckles and sway on tall stems. And although called "lily," it is actually in the Iris family, as you will see by its characteristic foliage. The clusters of summer blooms give way to unique seed pods that look just like blackberries, bringing fall interest to the garden and munchies for birds!! Thomas Jefferson planted Blackberry Lilies at Monticello in the 1800's and the descendants still grow and bloom today. In fact, our lilies were propagated from Monticello seeds!  Number available: 1

Monarda (Bee Balm) - This charismatic native plant's unique "spikey hair" bloom brings an air of whimsey and fun to the garden. But there's more! Bee Balm  is a pollinator magnet! Our fuzzy friends absolutely cannot resist it (hence its name)  but it also attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Also, if you leave the seed heads on in winter, birds will feast on them.  A member of the mint family, Bee Balm will spread somewhat, so give it some room. However, unlike some other forms of mint, it is easy to pull the creepers once or twice a season. It's totally worth it to have this raucous beauty in the garden.   Number available: SOLD OUT

Yarrow - I used to love picking these as a child, and there is so much to love about this wonderful native plant! Its fern-like foliage forms a dense mound of greenery, providing a lush backdrop for the delicate clusters of flowers. Each bloom is a tiny masterpiece, attracting bees and butterflies and other beneficial insects. Drought tolerant and requiring low maintenance, yarrow is also a versatile herb with a long history of medical and culinary uses. Fossils of yarrow pollen have even been found in Neanderthal burial caves! Bloom time is summer till fall.  Number available: 3 white/light pink