Sunflowers Deer Resistant: How to Grow Them Without Being Devoured by Deer?

Are deer munching on your sunflowers again? You are not alone. Many gardeners face this problem and struggle to protect their beloved sunflowers from the persistent hooves of deer. But fear not, there are ways to grow sunflowers that are deer-resistant. In this article, we will share tips and tricks that will help you grow a beautiful sunflower garden without becoming a deer's midnight snack.

Why Are Sunflowers Attractive to Deer?

Sunflowers are a favorite food of deer, especially during the summer when other food sources are scarce. The tender shoots, leaves, and flowers of sunflowers are irresistible to these herbivores. Moreover, sunflowers are tall plants, which makes it easy for deer to reach them even if they're placed in a high location. However, some sunflower varieties are less appealing to deer than others. Let's explore them further.

Types of Sunflowers That Are Deer-Resistant

1. Dwarf Sunflowers - These sunflowers are shorter in height, making it difficult for deer to reach them. Dwarf sunflowers can be grown in pots or containers, making them ideal for small gardens.
2. Helianthus Lemon Queen - This variety has lemon-yellow flowers with a dark center. It grows up to 4 feet tall and is known to be deer-resistant.
3. Helianthus Silver Moon - This sunflower grows up to 6 feet tall and has silver-green foliage with yellow flowers. It is another deer-resistant variety.
4. Helianthus Maximilian - This tall sunflower can grow up to 10 feet tall and produces bright yellow flowers. It is known to be deer-resistant and attracts bees and butterflies.
5. Helianthus giganteus - This sunflower is also known as giant sunflower because of its height, which can reach up to 12 feet. It has yellow flowers and is deer-resistant.

How to Protect Your Sunflowers from Deer

Even if you choose deer-resistant sunflowers, it doesn't guarantee that deer won't take a bite out of them. Here are some tips to protect your sunflowers from deer:

1. Put up a fence - The most effective way to protect your garden from deer is to put up a fence. However, the fence should be at least 8 feet tall, as deer can jump over lower fences.
2. Use deer repellents - There are many deer repellents available in the market that work by emitting a scent or taste that deer find unpleasant. You can spray these repellents on your sunflowers to deter deer from eating them.
3. Grow companion plants - Some plants, such as marigolds, lavender, and garlic, repel deer. Planting these companion plants around your sunflowers can help keep deer away.
4. Use netting - Covering your sunflowers with netting can also protect them from deer. Make sure to secure the netting tightly around the plants to prevent deer from getting inside.

How to Grow Sunflowers

Now that you know which sunflower varieties are deer-resistant and how to protect them from deer, let's look at how to grow sunflowers.

Choosing the Right Location

Sunflowers need full sun to grow, so choose a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. They also prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

Sowing Sunflower Seeds

Sow sunflower seeds directly into the soil after the last frost date. Plant the seeds about 6 inches apart and 1 inch deep. Water the seeds regularly until they germinate. Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, thin them out to 18-24 inches apart.

Caring for Sunflowers

Sunflowers need regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. They also benefit from fertilization every 4-6 weeks. Use a balanced fertilizer that is high in phosphorus to promote flower growth.

Growing sunflowers can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be frustrating when deer keep eating them. By choosing deer-resistant sunflowers, protecting them from deer, and following the right growing techniques, you can enjoy a beautiful sunflower garden without worrying about deer. Remember to choose the right location, sow seeds correctly, and care for your plants regularly.

FAQs

Q1: How can I tell if a sunflower variety is deer-resistant?

A: Look for varieties that have tough or hairy leaves, as deer don't like the texture. Also, choose sunflowers with smaller flowers, as they are less appealing to deer.

Q2: Do sunflowers attract other animals besides deer?

A: Yes, sunflowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds. They are an excellent source of nectar and seeds for these animals.

Q3: Can I grow sunflowers in pots?

A: Yes, you can grow dwarf sunflowers in pots or containers. Make sure to use well-draining soil and water the plants regularly.

Q4: How often should I fertilize my sunflowers?

A: Fertilize your sunflowers every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer that is high in phosphorus.

Q5: What is the best time to plant sunflowers?

A: Plant sunflowers after the last frost date, which is usually in late spring or early summer.

Q6: Can I use human hair or soap to deter deer?

A: Some gardeners claim that using human hair or soap can repel deer, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.

Q7: How tall do sunflowers grow?

A: Sunflowers can grow up to 10-12 feet tall, depending on the variety.

Q8: How long do sunflowers bloom?

A: Sunflowers bloom for about 2-3 weeks, depending on the variety.

Q9: Can I save sunflower seeds for planting next year?

A: Yes, you can save sunflower seeds for planting next year. Make sure to store them in a cool and dry place.

Q10: How do I know when sunflower seeds are ready to harvest?

A: Sunflower seeds are ready to harvest when the flower heads to droop and the back of the flower head turns yellow or brown.

10 Sunflowers deer resistant Images

Yarrow 612 Drought Tolerant Blooms Springfall Deer Resistant

Tough As Nails DeerResistant Garden For Sun Deer Resistant Garden

87 Best Clay Soil Capable Plants Native To North America Images

Echinacea Seeds Purple Coneflower Echinacea Purpurea Tough Heat

Suncredible Yellow Sunflower Helianthus Hybrid Deer Resistant

Bushy 34 Wind Resistant Soraya Sunflower Flower Seeds Annual

15 Great Native Plants For Southwestern Gardens Native Plants Plants

Deer Resistant And Native Perennials In 2020 Perennial Garden Plans

I Lost My Sunflowers To The Deer Before They Could Blossom But Then I

Sunflower Bouquet Bull Skull Sunflower Skull Sunflowers Watercolor