Are Arborvitae Deer Resistant and What You Need to Know

Arborvitae trees have been a popular choice for landscaping due to their low maintenance requirements and dense foliage. They can grow up to 20 feet tall, making them a great option for hedges or screens.

Arborvitae trees are often considered deer resistant, but the truth is more complex. According to research, deer tend to avoid arborvitae trees that are densely planted, with at least 3-4 trees per square foot. This dense planting can make it difficult for deer to feed.

In areas with high deer populations, arborvitae trees may still be vulnerable to damage. Deer may eat the new growth on arborvitae trees, particularly in the spring when other food sources are scarce.

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The Green Giant Arborvitae, in particular, has shown some promise in withstanding deer attacks. A friend of mine had a field of these plants near Lake Erie, and despite the presence of hundreds of deer, the Green Giant variety was largely untouched.

One reason for this is the dense, fibrous foliage of the Green Giant Arborvitae. This characteristic makes it unappealing to deer, who tend to prefer softer vegetation.

Another factor contributing to its deer resistance is the strong aroma of the plant. This might not seem like a significant factor, but it's worth noting that deer have a keen sense of smell and tend to avoid plants with strong scents.

The fast growth rate of the Green Giant Arborvitae is also a plus. Deer often prefer to eat plants that are young and tender, but the rapid growth of this variety means it's always producing new, deer-resistant foliage.

While no plant is completely deer-proof, the Green Giant Arborvitae is one of the best choices for deer-resistant privacy trees. However, it's worth noting that harsh winters, food scarcity, and high deer populations can all contribute to deer eating even the most resistant plants.

Here are some scenarios where deer might eat even the deer-resistant Green Giant Arborvitae:

The Green Giant Arborvitae is a popular choice for its deer resistance, but how does it really hold up?

It's not completely deer-proof, as a friend's experience with a field of Arborvitae near Lake Erie showed. Hundreds of Green Giant Arborvitaes, along with other varieties, were eaten by deer when food was scarce.

The Green Giant Arborvitae is actually one of the most deer-resistant options, with a high deer resistance level of ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆.

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The Green Giant Arborvitae is an impressive tree, but how does it stack up against other popular options? Let's take a look at some comparisons to help you make an informed decision.

In terms of deer resistance, the Green Giant Arborvitae is a clear winner. It's considered one of the most deer-resistant evergreen trees available, with a much lower risk of being eaten than its relative, the American Arborvitae.

When it comes to choosing a deer-resistant tree, it's essential to consider the level of resistance each tree offers. Here's a quick rundown of some popular options:

As you can see, the Green Giant Arborvitae is in good company when it comes to deer resistance. The Eastern Red Cedar is another high-ranking option, thanks to its strong-smelling foliage that deters deer.

If you're looking for deer-resistant varieties of arborvitae, you're in luck. The "Can-Can" western red cedar is a great option, growing up to 7 feet tall and 5 feet wide with deep green foliage and cream-colored tips.

It thrives in moist and well-drained soil with any pH level and full to partial sun. This tree is perfect for those who want a compact, pest-free option.

Another variety is the "Spring Grove" western red cedar, which can grow up to 50 feet tall and 8-10 feet wide. It tolerates pests and grows quickly, making it ideal for those seeking tall privacy trees.

The "Zebrina" western red cedar is also deer-resistant, growing 4-8 feet tall and 8-12 feet wide. It loves moist soil with good drainage and can handle sun or partial sun.

If you're looking for a more compact option, the "Can-Can" western red cedar is a great choice. It's a dwarf plant that grows 7 feet tall and 5 feet wide.

You can plant the "Can-Can" western red cedar in zones 5 through 8, making it a versatile option for many gardeners.

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Deer damage to arborvitae can be a real concern, but the good news is that they're not completely deer-proof. Deer will eat the greenery on arborvitae trees, leaving them looking bare, and if they eat into the wood, the tree can't fill it back in again.

The extent of the damage depends on various factors, including the availability of food, the health of the deer, and the history of deer visiting your yard. Deer have a natural preference for certain plants, and arborvitae is one of their favorites.

In most cases, deer will ignore Thuja Green Giants, but they may take an occasional nibble if food is scarce. Young trees, extreme winters, or high deer populations increase the risk of browsing.

To protect your arborvitae from deer, you can try using deer repellents, such as commercial products or homemade solutions like garlic, hot pepper spray, or rotten eggs. Fencing, at least 7-8 feet tall, is also an effective long-term solution.

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Here are some deer-repellent plants that you can surround your Thuja Green Giants with:

Keep in mind that no plant is completely deer-proof, and even Thuja Green Giants can be nibbled on under certain conditions. However, with proper care and protection, your trees will remain lush, green, and healthy.

Deer may sample the foliage of Thuja Green Giants, but they typically won't strip the entire tree. Most damage occurs on the lower branches where deer can easily reach. Once spring arrives and food becomes plentiful, deer usually ignore Thuja Green Giants again.

Worth a look: Arborvitae American Thuja Occidentalis

Arborvitae trees are a popular choice for landscaping, and for good reason. They're relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of conditions.

While arborvitae trees are often touted as deer-resistant, the truth is that they can still be susceptible to deer damage, especially in areas with high deer populations. In fact, studies have shown that deer can cause significant damage to arborvitae trees, particularly during the winter months when other food sources are scarce.

Expand your knowledge: Arborvitaes Trees

If you're looking to protect your arborvitae trees from deer, consider using physical barriers or repellents to deter them. In areas with high deer pressure, it's also a good idea to plant multiple trees to ensure that at least some will survive.

Ultimately, the key to successful arborvitae tree cultivation is finding a balance between deer resistance and other environmental factors. By understanding the specific needs of your trees and taking steps to protect them, you can enjoy the benefits of these beautiful and versatile trees for years to come.

Arborvitaes are a popular choice for landscaping, but are they deer resistant? Let's break down the facts.

Arborvitaes have thick, dense foliage that makes them harder to chew and digest. Deer tend to avoid them for this reason alone.

Their strong scent is another natural deterrent that keeps deer away. This is due to the essential oils present in the plant.

Arborvitaes grow quickly, which means they can recover from minor browsing in no time. This fast growth rate is a big advantage when it comes to deer resistance.

Deer simply don't prefer to eat arborvitaes. They favor softer, more tender plants instead.

Curious to learn more? Check out: How Much Do Arborvitaes Grow in a Year