Deer are known for their love of plants, and it’s not uncommon for homeowners to find their gardens and landscaping damaged by these elusive herbivores. If you’re a fan of collard greens and want to grow them in your backyard, you may be wondering if deer will be interested in munching on your homegrown greens.
Do Deer Eat Collard Greens?
The short answer is: yes, deer will eat collard greens if they have access to them. Collard greens, like other leafy greens, are a common food source for deer.
In fact, deer will eat just about any type of vegetation they come across, including flowers, shrubs, trees, and garden vegetables.
While deer generally prefer a varied diet that includes a mix of woody plants and herbaceous plants, they will eat collard greens if they are available. This is especially true if other food sources are scarce or if the deer are particularly hungry.
Factors That Influence Deer Feeding Habits
There are several factors that can influence a deer’s feeding habits, including:
Availability of food sources:
If a deer has access to a variety of food sources, it will be more likely to eat a wider range of plants. However, if a particular type of food (such as collard greens) is abundant and easily accessible, deer will be more likely to choose that as a food source.
Seasonal changes:
Deer’s dietary habits can change with the seasons. During the spring and summer months, when new growth is abundant, deer will mostly graze on herbaceous plants like grasses and forbs.
In the fall and winter, when these plants are scarce, deer will turn to woody plants and evergreens for sustenance.
Population density:
The number of deer in a particular area can also affect their feeding habits. In areas with high deer populations, competition for food can be fierce, leading deer to eat a wider range of plants in order to survive.
So, while collard greens may not be at the top of a deer’s list of preferred foods, they will certainly eat them if given the opportunity. If you want to protect your collard greens (and other plants) from deer, there are several steps you can take to deter these herbivores from your garden.
How to Protect Collard Greens from Deer
If you want to protect your collard greens (and other plants) from deer, there are several steps you can take to deter these herbivores from your garden. Here are a few options to consider:
Use fencing or netting:
One of the most effective ways to keep deer out of your garden is to use fencing or netting. There are a variety of fence styles and materials available, and the right choice for you will depend on your budget and the level of deer pressure in your area.
In general, fences should be at least 8 feet tall to effectively deter deer, and they should also be installed close to the ground to prevent deer from crawling under. Netting can also be a effective option, especially for smaller gardens or individual plants.
Plant collard greens in raised beds or containers:
Another option is to plant your collard greens in raised beds or containers. This will make it more difficult for deer to access the plants, and it can also help protect the greens from other pests and diseases.
Use deer repellent sprays:
There are also a variety of deer repellent sprays on the market that can help deter deer from eating your collard greens. These sprays typically contain natural or artificial scents that are unpleasant to deer, and they can be sprayed directly on the plants to create a barrier that deer will avoid.
Plant deer-resistant plants nearby:
Finally, you can try planting deer-resistant plants nearby your collard greens. Some plants, such as herbs and aromatic flowers, have strong scents that can deter deer.
Planting these types of plants near your collard greens can help create a natural barrier that will help keep deer away.
Conclusion
In conclusion, deer will eat collard greens if they have access to them.
However, there are several steps you can take to protect your collard greens from these herbivores, including using fencing or netting, planting the greens in raised beds or containers, using deer repellent sprays, and planting deer-resistant plants nearby.
With a little bit of planning and effort, you can successfully grow collard greens in your backyard without worrying about deer damage.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I plant collard greens in areas with high deer populations?
Yes, you can plant collard greens in areas with high deer populations, but you will need to take extra precautions to protect the plants.
Options include using fencing or netting, planting the greens in raised beds or containers, using deer repellent sprays, and planting deer-resistant plants nearby. It may also be helpful to plant your collard greens in an area that is less attractive to deer, such as near a source of human activity or noise.
How often should I use deer repellent sprays?
The frequency with which you should use deer repellent sprays will depend on the specific product you are using and the level of deer pressure in your area. In general, it is a good idea to reapply the spray every few weeks or after it has been washed off by rain.
Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label for the best results.
Will deer eat collard greens that have been cooked or processed in some way?
It is possible that deer will eat collard greens that have been cooked or processed in some way, but it is less likely. Deer are generally more attracted to raw, unprocessed plants, and they may not be as interested in collard greens that have been cooked or processed.
However, if the greens are still easily accessible and other food sources are scarce, deer may still be tempted to try them.
Can I plant collard greens in containers to protect them from deer?
Yes, planting collard greens in containers can be an effective way to protect them from deer. Containers can make it more difficult for deer to access the plants, and they can also provide an extra layer of protection from other pests and diseases.
Just be sure to use containers that are large enough to accommodate the growth of your collard greens, and provide them with the proper care and attention they need to thrive.
Are there any plants that are completely deer-proof?
It is difficult to say that any plant is completely deer-proof, as deer are opportunistic feeders and will eat just about any type of vegetation they come across if they are hungry enough. However, some plants are less attractive to deer and are therefore less likely to be eaten.
These include plants with strong scents or flavors, spiky or prickly textures, or tough or hairy leaves. Planting a mix of these types of plants can help deter deer from your garden.
