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Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Monday - May 14, 2007

From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Deer Resistant
Title: Deer-proof native plants
Answered by: Damon Waitt

QUESTION:

Dear Mr. Smarty Plants: Can you recommend some Deer-proof native plants including shrubs and flowering plants?

ANSWER:

Funny you should ask. We just put together a list of deer resistant plants on our website. Few plants are completely deer resistant. Several factors influence deer browsing including the density of the deer population, environmental conditions such as drought, and plant palatability. Deer tend to avoid plants with aromatic foliage, tough leathery and/or hairy or prickly leaves or plants with milky latex or sap. Try using some of the plants listed here to minimize deer damage to your landscape.
 

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