Do Deer Eat Lilac Bushes?

Deer feed on over 700 species of plants, many found in gardens and home landscapes. Consuming up to 6 lbs. of food a day, deer can quickly destroy a garden or flower bed. Although deer will eat almost anything if hungry, some plants are less desirable than others.The common lilac is amongst plants that deer tend to avoid.

The best know lilac is the common lilac (Syringa vulgari). This hardy, deciduous shrub grows 8 to 20 feet tall with a spread up to 20 feet. Fragrant white to purple flowers are framed by dark green, heart-shaped leaves.

Lilacs prefer full sun and well-drained, alkaline soil. Water 1 inch per week during dry and hot periods. Mulch and spring fertilization increase flower production. Diseased and distorted stems should be removed to encourage dead wood bloom. Remove flowers at the base as soon as color fades.

Choosing plants that deer dislike helps protect your garden and works well in combination with other known deterrent methods. Commercial deer deterrents sprayed on plants or around the garden perimeter emit a foul taste and odor that discourage dining deer. The best method of keeping deer from beloved plants is to erect an 8 foot fence at a 45 degree angle.