Will Deer Eat Blueberry Plants?

Recognizing Deer Damage

• It is simple to tell whether a deer has caused damage to a blueberry plant. Because deer have no upper incisors, when they eat a plant, they leave either a torn or jagged appearance, according to Montana State University Extension. Cloven-hoof tracks are also an indicator of deer presence in a garden or landscape, according to the University of Massachusetts Extension.

Deter with Resistant Plantings

• Although the list is short, gardeners may want to consider incorporating some planting around or near the blueberry plants that deer find less appealing. Gardeners should know, however, if a deer is hungry enough, even these plants may be palatable, according to Colorado State University Extension. Berberis vulgaris "Common barberry," Burus sempervirens "Common Boxwood" and Picea pungens "Colorado Blue Spruce" are generally unappealing to deer.

Deter with Fences

• A properly installed and well-maintained fence, electrical or non-electrical, is one of the best defenses against deer disturbing plantings, according to the University of Massachusetts Extension. A non-electrical fence should be at least 8 feet tall and an electrical fence should have wires at least 10 to 12 inches above the ground.

Deter with Repellants

• Repellants, contact or area, can be used to keep deer at bay. Contact repellants are applied directly to a plant, whereas area repellants are used near the target area. Repellants require multiple applications, and according to Colorado State University Extension, tend to work best on plants that are not desirable.