What to Plant Next to Hostas to Keep Deer Away

Hostas, with their lush foliage and varied hues, are a staple in many gardens. However, their beauty often draws unwanted attention from deer, who aren't shy about munching on these prized plants. If you're wondering what to plant next to hostas to keep deer away, you're in the right place. We've compiled a list of deer-resistant plants that not only deter deer but also complement your hostas beautifully.

First, let's understand why deer might be attracted to your hostas. Deer are browsers, meaning they eat a variety of plants, and hostas, with their high moisture content and tender leaves, can be quite appealing. They're also drawn to plants that are easy to access and have few natural predators. By planting deer-resistant species nearby, we can create a barrier that makes your garden less inviting to these herbivores.

Fragrant Plants to Repel Deer

Deer have a keen sense of smell, and certain fragrances can deter them. Incorporating these plants into your garden can help keep deer away from your hostas.

One such plant is lavender. Its strong, pleasant scent is a natural deer repellent. Plus, lavender's beautiful purple flowers and silver foliage make a stunning contrast to hostas. Plant it in full sun and well-draining soil, and watch as deer give your garden a wide berth.

Lavender Varieties

There are many lavender varieties to choose from, each with its unique fragrance and color. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is a popular choice for its sweet scent and compact size, perfect for bordering your hosta bed. Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas), with its distinctive 'rabbit ear' flowers, is another attractive option.

Another fragrant plant that deer dislike is rosemary. This woody herb has a strong, pungent scent that deer find unappealing. Rosemary is a great companion for hostas, as it prefers the same sunny, well-draining conditions. It also adds a lovely, rustic touch to any garden.

Rosemary Varieties

There are many rosemary varieties to choose from, including the popular 'Blue Boy' with its aromatic, needle-like leaves, and 'Golden Rain' with its striking golden foliage. Both make excellent companions for hostas, providing a textural contrast and a delightful scent.

Thorny Plants to Protect Your Hostas

Deer aren't just put off by strong scents; they also avoid plants with thorns or rough textures. Incorporating these plants into your garden can create a physical barrier that deters deer from approaching your hostas.

One such plant is barberry. This shrub has sharp thorns and glossy, burgundy leaves that provide excellent contrast to the soft, green foliage of hostas. Barberry is also easy to grow and thrives in a variety of conditions, making it an excellent choice for garden borders.

Barberry Varieties

There are many barberry varieties to choose from, including the popular 'Rose Glow' with its stunning, reddish-purple foliage, and 'Crimson Pygmy' with its compact size and intense color. Both make excellent companions for hostas, providing protection and a striking contrast.

Another thorny plant that deer dislike is hollies. These evergreen shrubs have sharp, pointed leaves and produce vibrant red berries in the fall. Hollies are excellent for creating a dense, impenetrable barrier around your hosta bed. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

Holly Varieties

There are many holly varieties to choose from, including the popular 'Yaupon' with its glossy, dark green leaves and 'Nellie Stevens' with its dense, evergreen foliage and abundant red berries. Both make excellent companions for hostas, providing protection and a touch of holiday cheer.

Incorporating these deer-resistant plants into your garden can help keep deer away from your hostas, allowing you to enjoy their beauty without worry. Remember, the key is to create a barrier that makes your garden less inviting to deer. By combining fragrant and thorny plants, you can create a garden that's both beautiful and deer-resistant. So, go ahead and plant with confidence, knowing that your hostas have got a helping hand in their battle against deer.