Do Deer Eat Green Giant Arborvitae?

Do Deer Eat Green Giant Arborvitae?

Green Giant arborvitae (Thuja plicata) is a popular evergreen tree that is often used for landscaping. It is known for its lush green foliage and its ability to tolerate a variety of conditions. However, deer can be a problem for Green Giant arborvitae, as they will often eat the foliage of these trees. This can damage the tree and make it unsightly.

In this article, we will discuss whether or not deer eat Green Giant arborvitae, what damage they can cause, and how to protect your trees from deer.

Question Answer Source
Do Deer Eat Green Giant Arborvitae? Yes University of Wisconsin-Extension

What is a Green Giant Arborvitae?

A Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja Green Giant) is a fast-growing evergreen tree that is native to North America. It is a member of the Cupressaceae family, and its scientific name is Thuja occidentalis ‘Green Giant’.

Green Giant Arborvitaes are known for their dense, pyramidal shape and their dark green foliage. They can grow to be up to 50 feet tall and 20 feet wide, and they make an excellent choice for privacy screens, hedges, and foundation plantings.

Green Giant Arborvitaes are relatively low-maintenance trees that are drought-tolerant and resistant to pests and diseases. They are also deer-resistant, which makes them a popular choice for homeowners who live in areas with high deer populations.

Do deer eat Green Giant Arborvitae?

Deer do not typically eat Green Giant Arborvitae, but they may occasionally browse on the foliage if other food sources are scarce. Green Giant Arborvitaes are not as palatable to deer as other plants, such as azaleas, rhododendrons, and forsythia. However, if deer are hungry enough, they will eat Green Giant Arborvitae.

Deer damage to Green Giant Arborvitaes is usually limited to the tips of the branches. The damage is often not severe, and the tree will usually recover without any intervention. However, if deer damage is severe, it may be necessary to prune the tree to remove the damaged branches.

If you live in an area with a high deer population, you can take steps to protect your Green Giant Arborvitae from deer damage. These steps include:

  • Installing a deer fence around the tree.
  • Applying a deer repellent to the tree.
  • Planting other plants that deer do not like around the tree.

By taking these steps, you can help to protect your Green Giant Arborvitae from deer damage.

Green Giant Arborvitaes are beautiful, deer-resistant trees that are a great choice for landscaping. If you live in an area with a high deer population, you can take steps to protect your Green Giant Arborvitae from deer damage.

Do Deer Eat Green Giant Arborvitae?

Yes, deer will eat Green Giant arborvitae. They are a popular deer food because they are a fast-growing evergreen that provides both food and cover. Deer will eat the leaves, twigs, and bark of Green Giant arborvitae, and they can quickly damage or even kill a tree if they are not controlled.

What can be done to deter deer from eating Green Giant Arborvitae?

There are a number of things that can be done to deter deer from eating Green Giant arborvitae. Some of the most effective methods include:

  • Installing a deer fence. A deer fence is the most effective way to keep deer away from your trees. Deer fences should be at least 8 feet tall and made of a material that deer cannot see through, such as woven wire or plastic mesh.
  • Using repellents. There are a number of commercially available deer repellents that can be used to deter deer from eating trees. These repellents typically contain a strong scent that deer find unpleasant, such as garlic, pepper, or predator urine.
  • Encouraging natural predators. Deer are prey animals, and they will avoid areas where they are likely to be attacked by predators. Planting native plants that attract birds of prey, such as hawks and owls, can help to keep deer away from your trees.
  • Distracting deer. Deer are attracted to food, so one way to deter them from eating your trees is to provide them with an alternative food source. You can do this by planting a deer-resistant garden or by leaving out piles of hay or corn.

How to care for Green Giant Arborvitae if deer have eaten them?

If deer have eaten your Green Giant arborvitae, there are a few things you can do to help the trees recover.

  • Prune damaged branches. If deer have eaten the leaves or twigs of your trees, you will need to prune away the damaged branches. This will help to prevent the trees from becoming infected with disease.
  • Fertilize your trees. Deer can damage the roots of your trees, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies. Fertilizing your trees will help them to recover from the damage and to grow new leaves.
  • Water your trees regularly. Deer can also damage the bark of your trees, which can make them more susceptible to drought. Watering your trees regularly will help them to stay healthy and hydrated.

By following these tips, you can help your Green Giant arborvitae to recover from deer damage and to continue to grow and thrive.

Deer can be a major problem for Green Giant arborvitae, but there are a number of things that can be done to deter them from eating your trees. By installing a deer fence, using repellents, encouraging natural predators, and distracting deer, you can help to keep your Green Giant arborvitae healthy and beautiful.

Do deer eat Green Giant Arborvitae?

Yes, deer will eat Green Giant Arborvitae. They are a popular food source for deer, and can cause significant damage to trees if they are not protected.

What can I do to protect my Green Giant Arborvitae from deer?

There are a number of things you can do to protect your Green Giant Arborvitae from deer, including:

  • Install a deer fence. A deer fence is the most effective way to keep deer away from your trees. The fence should be at least 8 feet tall and should be made of a material that deer cannot see through, such as metal or plastic.
  • Use deer repellents. There are a number of different deer repellents available on the market, including sprays, granules, and soaps. These repellents can help to deter deer from eating your trees, but they are not as effective as a deer fence.
  • Plant deer-resistant plants. There are a number of plants that deer do not like to eat, such as lavender, rosemary, and mint. Planting these plants around your Green Giant Arborvitae can help to deter deer from eating them.

How much damage can deer do to Green Giant Arborvitae?

Deer can cause significant damage to Green Giant Arborvitae, including:

  • Defoliation. Deer will eat the leaves of Green Giant Arborvitae, which can cause the tree to lose its leaves and become unsightly.
  • Branch damage. Deer will also rub their antlers on Green Giant Arborvitae, which can cause branches to break.
  • Root damage. Deer will sometimes dig up the roots of Green Giant Arborvitae, which can kill the tree.

How can I tell if my Green Giant Arborvitae is being damaged by deer?

There are a few signs that can indicate that your Green Giant Arborvitae is being damaged by deer, including:

  • Defoliated leaves. If the leaves of your Green Giant Arborvitae are missing, it is likely that deer have been eating them.
  • Broken branches. If you see broken branches on your Green Giant Arborvitae, it is likely that deer have been rubbing their antlers on them.
  • Dug up roots. If you see the roots of your Green Giant Arborvitae exposed, it is likely that deer have been digging them up.

What should I do if I think my Green Giant Arborvitae is being damaged by deer?

If you think your Green Giant Arborvitae is being damaged by deer, there are a few things you can do:

  • Install a deer fence. A deer fence is the most effective way to keep deer away from your trees.
  • Use deer repellents. Deer repellents can help to deter deer from eating your trees, but they are not as effective as a deer fence.
  • Plant deer-resistant plants. Planting deer-resistant plants around your Green Giant Arborvitae can help to deter deer from eating them.
  • Monitor your trees for signs of damage. By monitoring your trees for signs of damage, you can catch any problems early and take steps to correct them.

    deer do eat Green Giant arborvitae, but there are a number of things you can do to protect your trees. By following these tips, you can help keep your Green Giant arborvitae healthy and looking their best.

  • Install a deer fence around your property. This is the most effective way to keep deer away from your trees. Make sure the fence is at least 8 feet tall and that there are no gaps that deer can squeeze through.
  • Use deer repellents. There are a number of different deer repellents available on the market. Some of these repellents are made with natural ingredients, while others are synthetic. Choose a repellent that is safe for your trees and that has been proven to be effective.
  • Plant deer-resistant plants. There are a number of plants that deer do not like to eat. By planting these plants around your Green Giant arborvitae, you can help to deter deer from eating your trees.
  • Prune your trees regularly. This will help to keep your trees healthy and strong, and it will also make them less attractive to deer.
  • Water your trees regularly. Deer are more likely to eat trees that are stressed or unhealthy. By watering your trees regularly, you can help to keep them healthy and make them less appealing to deer.

By following these tips, you can help keep your Green Giant arborvitae healthy and looking their best.

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Kelsey Hammons
Kelsey Hammons
I was born and raised in the fabulous state of Maryland but recently decided to pack up my stuff and move to the Midwest city they call Chicago.

I hope to capture all of my life’s adventures of living in the windy city. AKA the food I cook, my journey to the Chicago Marathon, the books I read and the trashy TV shows I watch. I’m a health-nut, book-worm and exercise fiend.

Join me, Kelsey, on this exciting journey as I embrace the challenges and joys of my new life in Chicago. From mastering the art of healthy cooking to hitting the pavement for marathon training, my blog is a window into my world of self-discovery and fun.

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