Shannon Caringi

Beautiful, Easy to Grow Deer Resistant Shrubs and Trees

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Deer Resistant Shrubs & Trees

I have lived in northeastern Ohio my whole life and seeing deer is commonplace, even in densely populated suburban and urban areas. My husband Jimmy and I like to walk through many of the beautiful public parks and it isn’t uncommon to see deer grazing. Quite often, we are able to walk within 5 feet of them and they are not skittish or frightened by our presence. It is as if they expect to see us! Last week we saw a mother nursing her baby from about 15 feet away. The mother saw us but didn’t mind us watching. I love seeing them in nature. Their big brown eyes are adorable and they are beautiful… until they start devouring my landscape!

Realtree.com estimates that Ohio has 18.3 deer per square mile, third highest in the country. So Ohio gardeners especially know how deer can make their yard a nightly buffet. There are many products designed to help keep deer away, however they generally need to be reapplied regularly and aren’t an effective long-term solution. One of the best strategies is to continue to add deer resistant shrubs and plants to your landscape. Although there isn’t any plant that is deer-proof, they certainly have favorite plants and will seek those out over those that they find distasteful.

Below is a list of deer resistant shrubs and trees. If you live in an area with a high deer population, these plants won’t be their favorites and will make it easier to have a beautiful, enjoyable landscape. Also, see our list of deer resistant annuals and perennials.

How to Keep Fall Mums Gorgeous All Season

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Fall mums in bloom with gourds on front porch steps.

One of the sure signs that cooler weather is on the way is the arrival of fall mums at local retailers. They are synonymous with autumn and can brighten any garden, patio or window box that is weary from the summer heat. Fall mums are great for decorating as they can be paired with straw, pumpkins, and cornstalks creating an instant fall display. Learn tips for selecting, growing and caring for fall mums to beautifully decorate your landscape this fall.

Deer Resistant Annuals & Perennials

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The face of a doe deer with big ears and the text overlay: 75 Deer Resistant Annuals and Perennials.

Deer can be one of the most voracious pests in the yard and garden, but they are very picky eaters. Although there aren’t any “deer-proof” plants, there are plants that they will only eat as a last resort when starving. Plants that have scented foliage, textured leaves, thorns or sap in the stem are much less appealing. If you live in an area with a high deer population, the following plants will have a better chance of escaping deer damage.

Smoked Pulled Pork

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Pulled Pork Sandwich

Smoked pulled pork is a great way to make a lot of food at one time for a summer picnic. It is extremely economical and is an easy way to serve a generous main dish on a budget. There will be plenty to share with friends and family and still have extra to freeze for later. Here are easy preparation and cooking tips to make this delicious crowd-pleaser!

Peonies: Easy to Grow & Beautiful

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Peonies Growing in a Garden

If you want elegant simplicity in your landscape, peonies are the plants for you! These iconic perennials are quintessential in English cottage gardens and can make any yard a touch of heaven. Their billowy, soft petals and light fragrance also make them a gorgeous cut flower. Read more to learn how to enjoy these in your landscape for years to come!

Planting Flowers for Curb Appeal

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White new guinea impatiens planted for curb appeal

Nothing can add curb appeal to your home more than a large display of annual flowers. In this project, I am planting 25 white New Guinea Impatiens along a front walk. They will create a vibrant display and give the home stunning curb appeal. See tips on how to create a stunning display at your home and watch a video of the process.