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Yes, deer do eat arborvitae.
This is a common and frustrating problem for many homeowners.
If you’ve been searching “do deer eat arborvitae?” the answer is a definite yes.
Deer eating arborvitae can cause significant damage to these slow-growing evergreens.
Arborvitae are popular for privacy screens and ornamental value.
They are relatively low-maintenance until deer discover them.
Understanding why deer eat arborvitae is the first step to protecting your landscape.
In this guide, we will cover the reasons deer target arborvitae, effective prevention methods, signs of damage, and recovery tips.
Let’s dive in.
Why Deer Eat Arborvitae
1. Deer Eat Arborvitae During Winter When Food Is Scarce
Winter is the peak season for deer damage to arborvitae.
Snow covers the ground, making grass and other plants inaccessible.
Deer then turn to evergreens like arborvitae for sustenance.
Arborvitae provides both nutrition and hydration through its foliage.
This is why deer eat arborvitae most heavily in late winter.
The damage can be severe, stripping entire branches of leaves.
This is when your protection efforts should be strongest.
2. The Soft Texture and Taste Attract Deer
Deer have sensitive mouths and prefer tender plants.
Arborvitae has soft, scaly leaves that are easy to chew.
Unlike spiny evergreens, arborvitae is a pleasant meal.
This palatability means deer will eat arborvitae even when other options exist.
The new growth in spring is especially irresistible.
Deer are known to prefer arborvitae over many other evergreens.
3. Landscaping Choices Make Arborvitae Vulnerable
Many homeowners plant arborvitae in rows along property lines.
These rows often run along deer travel routes from forests or parks.
Additionally, bird feeders and compost piles attract deer to yards.
All these factors increase the chance that deer eat arborvitae.
Being aware of deer patterns in your area can help you anticipate damage.
How to Stop Deer from Eating Arborvitae
1. Install a Physical Barrier That Deer Cannot Penetrate
The most reliable method is a fence tall enough to stop deer.
Deer can jump up to 7 feet, so a fence should be 8 feet tall.
Use woven wire or deer netting for cost-effective results.
For individual arborvitae, wrap them in burlap or use wire cages.
Barriers are a one-time investment that provides lasting protection.
There are many types of deer fencing available, including metal mesh and plastic netting.
Choose a material that is durable and visible to avoid deer injuries.
A fence not only protects arborvitae but also other plants in your garden.
2. Apply Deer Repellents on a Regular Schedule
Repellents create an unpleasant experience for deer when they try to eat.
Choose a product with ingredients like putrescent egg solids or garlic.
Apply the repellent generously to all parts of the arborvitae.
Repeat the application every 2-3 weeks or after heavy rain.
Homemade repellents can be made with eggs, water, and hot pepper.
Some repellents are weather-resistant and last longer.
Always read the label for application instructions.
You can also rotate between different repellent types to prevent deer from getting used to one.
Consistency is more important than the brand you choose.
3. Use Motion-Activated Sprinklers or Lights
These devices surprise deer and make them wary of approaching.
Place them near vulnerable arborvitae for maximum effect.
They work best in combination with other deterrents.
These devices are particularly useful for small gardens.
4. Plant Deer-Resistant Species Around Arborvitae
Deer avoid strongly scented plants like sage, rosemary, and yarrow.
Planting these around your arborvitae can create a deterrent border.
Also consider plants with fuzzy or prickly textures.
Some gardeners have success with interplanting arborvitae with daffodils.
When Are Deer Most Likely to Eat Arborvitae?
1. Winter Is the Primary Season for Deer Eating Arborvitae
As mentioned, winter food scarcity drives deer to arborvitae.
Damage peaks in January and February.
This is when protection is most critical.
Prepare your barriers before the first snowfall.
2. Early Spring Brings Deer to Tender New Growth
Arborvitae puts out fresh growth in spring.
Deer love these tender shoots and will eat arborvitae then too.
Protection should continue through spring.
Check your arborvitae regularly in spring for signs of browsing.
3. Drought Conditions Can Also Lead Deer to Arborvitae
During dry summers, deer seek moisture-rich plants.
Arborvitae’s succulent foliage becomes a target.
So deer eat arborvitae even in summer during drought.
Watering your arborvitae during drought may reduce deer interest.
How to Identify Deer Damage on Arborvitae
1. Look for Rough, Torn Edges on Leaves and Branches
Deer pull and twist the foliage, leaving jagged marks.
This is distinct from the clean cuts made by rabbits or deer.
Learning to distinguish deer damage from other pests is important.
2. Note the Height of Damage
Deer feed from the ground up to about 5-6 feet.
If damage is concentrated on lower branches, deer are likely responsible.
If damage is higher than 6 feet, it may be from deer standing on snowdrifts.
3. Search for Deer Signs in the Area
Look for hoof prints, droppings, or flattened vegetation.
These confirm that deer are visiting your garden.
Deer tracks are easy to identify once you know what to look for.
What to Do If Deer Have Already Damaged Your Arborvitae
1. Prune Away Broken and Dead Branches
Use clean pruning shears to remove damaged parts.
Cut back to healthy wood to encourage new growth.
Prune in early spring before the tree starts growing.
Do not prune in fall as this can stimulate growth that will be damaged in winter.
2. Provide Extra Care to Help Recovery
Fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Water deeply during dry periods to reduce stress.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
Arborvitae can regrow from old wood, but it may take several seasons.
Be patient and continue providing care.
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can attract deer with new growth.
3. Implement Deterrents Immediately
Deer will return if not discouraged.
Use repellents and barriers to prevent further deer eating arborvitae.
The sooner you act, the better the chance of recovery.
So, Does Deer Eat Arborvitae?
Yes, deer do eat arborvitae.
This is a well-known issue for gardeners and landscapers.
By understanding that deer eat arborvitae, you can take effective action.
Combine physical barriers, repellents, and smart landscaping to protect your shrubs.
If damage occurs, proper care can help your arborvitae recover.
We hope this detailed guide on deer eating arborvitae helps you maintain a thriving garden.