Avens is a flowering perennial that adds lovely color and texture to an outdoor space. This plant is herbaceous and easy to grow in many different growing regions. Deer enjoy eating Avens and are likely to browse this plant if it is available. Plants grown in colder climates will drop all of their greenery when the weather turns cold, so Avens can only be damaged during the growing season. Plants grown in areas with mild winters stay evergreen and are susceptible to deer damage year-round.
Deer and other foraging animals will eat what is available. Animals will not necessarily seek out Avens, but they will eat this clump-forming plant if available. According to Rutgers University, this plant is occasionally severely damaged on their rating scale from Rarely Damaged to Frequently Severely Damaged.
| Rarely Damaged |
| Seldom Severely Damaged |
| Occasionally Severely Damaged |
| Frequently Severely Damaged |
Keeping Deer Away From Avens
You can still include Avens in your yard with some careful planning to protect the plant from hungry animals. Plant Avens in a yard surrounded by a fence to keep deer and other animals away. The presence of humans and pets, like dogs, may discourage deer from getting close, so plant Avens near a deck or busy area. Scent-based repellents are another option to keep animals away from Avens. Purchase a commercial formula, or make your own with hot pepper and garlic.
Will Avens Come Back After Deer Eat Them?
Depending on the amount of damage, plants eaten by deer may come back. Avens are hardy, clump-forming plants, and quickly regrow after shearing. However, the plant may not recover if it is young and most of it is eaten or damaged. Remove damaged sections and make sure the plant receives enough sunlight and water. Apply a balanced fertilizer to encourage new growth and take steps to keep deer and other animals away.
Sources: Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station ‘Landscape Plants Rated by Deer Resistance’ 2018
 |
Author Alison Cotsonas - Published 08-23-2022 |