Purslane is a flowering plant that thrives in warm, sunny weather. This succulent is commonly grown as an annual, although it can survive winter in warm climates. Purslane is poisonous to most pets and livestock and is not typically favored by foraging animals like deer and rabbits.
As an annual, Purslane is only accessible to most animals during the spring and summer. Abundant food sources are available during this time, which contributes to the unlikeliness of the plants being eaten. Purslane is a good plant choice for areas with large deer populations since animals do not favor this plant. However, animals will eat just about anything depending on the circumstances, so it is possible for Purslane to be nibbled on or destroyed.
Keeping Deer Away From Purslane
Since deer do not favor Purslane, there is a low chance of it being eaten, but it is possible. Humans are an excellent deterrent to protect Purslane from foraging animals like deer. Plant Purslane in a hanging basket or a bed near a patio or outdoor space. The presence of humans will likely be enough to deter deer from coming close enough to eat the plants. Fencing is another option to keep animals out of a yard and protect Purslane from deer.
Will Purslane Come Back After Deer Eat Them?
Purslane can bounce back after being eaten by animals. The timing and the extent of the damage will influence whether or not the plant recovers. Plants substantially destroyed or damaged late in the growing season may not have enough time to recover. Purslane is an annual and dies when the weather becomes cold. If the Purslane flowered and set seeds, you may have new plants in the following spring.
Sources: Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station ‘Landscape Plants Rated by Deer Resistance’ 2018
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Author Alison Cotsonas - Published 04-20-2023 |