Though we may not have many deer roaming around Arlington, the number of sightings only increases as you venture away from the heart of the city. Even on the outskirts of major urban areas in Texas, deer can find their way into your garden and wreak havoc on your plants that you worked hard to grow. However, even deer have their preferences when it comes to what they seek out at mealtime. APRD’s Urban Forestry Land Manager, Wendy Pappas, recommends these four sun-loving plants that deer don’t prefer to eat.

1. Salvia

   Salvia is closely related to the herb sage, and deer tend to avoid herbs. There are many varieties of Salvia to choose from, but the most popular kind in this area is Salvia Greggii, which thrives in hardiness zones 7-10. Most Salvias do well in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an ideal plant for Texas summers. Salvia flowers during summer and can range in color from bright red to pink and even blue. Not only are these flowers resistant to deer and heat, but they also add a gorgeous pop of color to any garden.

2. Milkweed

   Deer and livestock in general do not typically eat milkweed. This plant presents a bitter taste to animals, and deer don’t like the white milky sap produced by milkweed. There are many varieties of milkweed, so be sure to choose the kind most suited to your area. This is another plant that does best in full sun and well-drained soil, and it can grow in many different soil conditions. An important benefit of Milkweed is that it’s the only plant on which Monarch butterflies lay their eggs, and it’s also the only plant Monarch caterpillars eat. By planting milkweed in your garden, you’ll be protecting your plants from livestock while also serving Monarch butterflies and helping their population flourish!

3. Soft Leaf Yucca

   Deer seem to leave this plant alone completely, perhaps because of the sharp, grass-like leaves. Soft Leaf Yucca loves the sun and is also a water wise plant, making it both heat and drought resistant – perfect for Texas summers. This plant is suited for hardiness zones 7-9 and grows a tall spike reaching 4-6 feet tall. This spike will produce beautiful white blooms during the summer for a fantastic flower show. Since Soft Leaf Yucca is an evergreen plant, it will also provide some interest in your garden during the winter months.

4. Black Eyed Susan

   This perennial is a favorite among Texans in the summer. The leaves of Black Eyed Susan are thick and hairy, making them unattractive to hungry deer. When the plant is young, this hair has not yet developed, so be careful as the plant grows that deer do not find it. As the plant matures, deer should not be interested in it. Black Eyed Susan is hardy in zones 7-9 and likes well-drained soil.

Remember that no plant is fully deer-proof, but planting some or all of these will make your garden more appealing to look at and less appealing for deer to eat! Even in more rural areas with a larger deer population, these plants are great options for protecting your landscape from wandering wildlife.