Do Deer Eat Day Lilies?

Daylilies are tough, drought-resistant plants that grow well in a variety of conditions. Unfortunately, their tender blooms make a tasty snack for deer. How much damage deer do depend on their access to the flower beds, how hungry they are and the presence of deterrents.

Variety

• Stella de Oro daylilies (Hemmerocallis Stella de Oro) are deer-resistant, according to the West Virginia University Extension Service website, while other varieties are more vulnerable to damage from deer. The North Carolina State University Extension website lists all daylilies as susceptible to severe deer damage.

Considerations

• No plant is completely deer-proof, especially in the spring, when deer are hungry and food is scarce. Daylilies that have been over-watered or over-fertilized are tender and lush, making them more tempting to deer.

Solutions

• Plant daylilies amid highly aromatic or woody plants, such as catmint, lavender and thyme. Deer generally avoid highly scented plants and may be deterred from munching the daylilies.