As a nature lover and avid deer enthusiast, I couldn’t help but wonder: do deer eat wandering jew plants?

Wandering Jew plants may be at risk of being eaten by deer, among other animals.
While deer are not likely to venture onto a patio, they may graze on nearby bushes that include wandering jew.
Dogs are also known to wander and may inadvertently come into contact with the plant on the ground.
Cats, meanwhile, have free reign to go where they please and may come into contact with outdoor wandering jew.
Overall, caution should be taken when growing wandering jew outdoors near animals that may consume the plant.

Do Deer Eat Wandering Jew Plants?

Wandering Jew plants are popular among many gardeners because of their unique and attractive features. However, one concern that arises when growing these plants outdoors is their safety from deer and other animals. So, do deer eat Wandering Jew plants?

This can be a significant concern if you live in an area with a high deer population and want to grow Wandering Jew plants in your garden. Apart from deer, dogs that wander around the garden can also come into contact with Wandering Jew plants and damage them. Although cats are less of a concern, they are also free to roam and may come across the plant.

Unfortunately, the answer is yes. While deer prefer to browse on bushes, they will not shy away from grazing on Wandering Jew plants if they come across them. Deer feeding on Wandering Jew plants can cause significant damage to the plant, affecting its growth and overall health.

Understanding the Basics of Wandering Jew Plants

Wandering Jew plants are prized by many gardeners because of their unique and attractive features. These plants have long, pointed leaves that emerge purple in spring and gradually turn silver and green throughout the year. With their spreading growth habit, they can quickly fill up a garden bed and add an element of beauty to any outdoor space.

Understanding the basics of Wandering Jew plants can help gardeners make informed decisions about growing them in their garden.These plants are invasive species, meaning they can spread quickly. However, they also have a shallow root system, which can cause them to dry out if not adequately watered. It’s essential to keep the soil moist by watering them regularly, particularly during the summer months.

Growing Wandering Jew Plants Outdoors

Many gardeners love to grow Wandering Jew plants outdoors, and for good reason. They add an element of beauty to gardens with their unique shape and color. If you are planning on growing Wandering Jew plants outdoors, there are certain things you need to keep in mind.First, make sure you plant them in a spot that receives ample sunlight. These plants require a minimum of at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.

Second, ensure that the area you plant them in is well-draining. These plants can quickly rot if the soil is waterlogged. Finally, ensure that the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged. You can achieve this by watering them regularly and mulching around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.

Protecting Wandering Jew Plants from Deer

Protecting Wandering Jew plants from deer is essential if you want to grow them in your garden. There are several measures you can take to protect them from deer browsing.

Basic Deer Deterrents

Starting with the basics is best, and these old-fashioned methods have stood the test of time. They offer a quick sense of relief and are the best option for small plots with limited planting.

Bar Soap: Strange as it may seem, hanging bars of fragrant soap from your trees and garden fence is an effective deterrent for deer. The strong scent makes them think a predator is nearby, and they avoid area.

Human Hair: Sprinkling human hair around your garden plants is another smelly deterrent deer can’t stand. The scent gives the deer the impression that humans are close by, so they avoid the area as a result.

Dog Hair: If you don’t have human hair, your pet’s hair can be used as a substitute. Place some clumps of dog hair around your plants to keep deer from nibbling your garden.

Deer Repellent Sprays: These sprays cover your plants in an odor that deer can’t stand. The scent fades over time, so it’s necessary to reapply it often.

Advanced Deer Deterrents

For deer in larger areas with an abundance of interesting plants and shrubs, more sophisticated methods may be required. These methods are best for bigger areas, orchards, or vineyards.

Electric Fences: Installing an electric fence is an efficient way to stop deer in their tracks, but it’s an expensive option. It delivers a low-level shock and a buzzing noise that warns when creatures are near or are making an attempt to enter the area.

Netting and Fencing: Installing a fence around your garden area can protect your plants. However, deer are expert jumpers and can still leap over high barriers with ease. Additionally, using netting can protects your plants from hungry deer nibbling. Use poles to prop up netting and make it three to four feet above the ground. This way, the deer will be unable to plunge their head underneath to get to your plants.

Ultrasonic Devices: These devices emit noises that humans cannot hear but that keep deer and other animals away. They work effectively in areas where deer are abundant but not limited to deer.

High-Tech Deer Deterrents

When you’re in a situation that calls for more advanced or higher-tech tools to protect your garden plants from deer, look no further than technology. There are many options available for gardeners who require a deer-proof space for their precious plants.

Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These sprinklers shoot out water when a motion sensor detects movement near your garden. Deer and other animals will be startled by the sudden burst of water and flee.

Infrared Deer Deterrents: These work by detecting the heat signatures of deer as they come near your garden, plantings or orchards. Once targeted, the devices shoot ultrasonic noises that throw off the deer’s senses and make them retreat.

Deer-Proof Spraying Systems: These high-tech systems spray repellent when the sensors detect deer in the area. They are automated devices, meaning that they will spray repellents whether or not you are present.

Conclusion

So, do deer eat wandering jew plants? The answer is yes, they may! While deer may not specifically seek out wandering jew, they are known to graze on nearby vegetation, which could include this beauty. And it’s not just deer that pose a threat – dogs and cats may also come into contact with the plant, whether intentionally or not.

But don’t let that discourage you from growing wandering jew outdoors – just be cautious and take necessary precautions to protect the plant from hungry critters. Whether it’s fencing off the area or using natural repellents, there are plenty of ways to keep your wandering jew safe and sound. With a little effort and creativity, you can enjoy the beauty of this unique plant without worrying about it becoming a snack for your four-legged friends.