Are Creeping Phlox Deer Resistant? How to Keep Deer Out of Your Garden

Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) is a popular flowering ground cover known for its ability to thrive in a range of conditions. With its carpet-like mats of thick green foliage and vibrant flowers, this plant can provide color to sunny slopes, rock gardens, and open woodland settings. But how well does it hold up against hungry deer? Here’s what you need to know about creeping phlox’s deer resistance.

An Overview of Creeping Phlox

Native to North America, creeping phlox grows low to the ground, rarely reaching more than 6 inches in height. Its thick, needle-like leaves form a dense mat that suppresses weeds and provides visual interest even when not in bloom.

From early to mid spring, clusters of star-shaped flowers cover the foliage in shades of pink, lavender, blue, purple, and white. Some varieties also release a light, pleasant fragrance. The flowers attract butterflies and make nice cuttings too.

Once established, creeping phlox spreads via underground stems called stolons. It grows well in zones 3-9 and thrives in sandy, well-drained soils. While it prefers full sun, it will tolerate light shade. Just make sure the site has good airflow.

Is Creeping Phlox Deer Resistant?

The short answer is yes, creeping phlox is considered deer resistant. Deer tend to avoid it because of its fragrance, needle-like foliage, and sticky sap. But no plant is 100% deer proof.

Creeping phlox contains coumarin, a fragrant compound found in sweet woodruff and tonka beans. Deer do not like the scent. The tiny hairs on phlox leaves also exude a tacky sap that deters deer from nibbling.

However, a starving deer will eat almost anything. And young fawns may sample phlox since they are still learning what plants to avoid So while creeping phlox has natural deterrents, it’s not completely deer proof.

Tips for Keeping Deer Out of Your Garden

Here are some tips to make your landscape even less enticing to deer:

• Plant creeping phlox around the perimeter. Its strong scent can deter deer from entering the garden. Place it around plants that are more susceptible to damage.

• Intersperse other deer-resistant plants. Good choices include lavender, catmint, daffodils, foxglove, and butterfly bush. Diversifying makes it harder for deer to find a tasty meal.

• Use physical barriers like fencing or motion-activated sprinklers. An 8-foot deer fence provides the best protection, but a 4-foot fence may be sufficient in some cases

• Apply commercial repellents frequently. Repellents work best when applied every 2-4 weeks, especially after rain. Look for products containing eggs, garlic, or capsaicin.

• Allow access to native browse. Providing deer with alternative food sources can reduce damage. Plant stands of native trees like oak and maple outside your garden.

• Scare them away. Devices like inflatable snake decoys, clanging pie tins, or water sprayers may frighten deer at first but lose effectiveness over time.

• Use predator urine. The smell of coyote or wolf urine may dissuade deer. Look for commercial urine products and reapply every 2 weeks.

How to Grow Creeping Phlox Successfully

Once established, creeping phlox is quite low maintenance. Here are some tips for growing it successfully:

• Choose an area with full sun to part shade and sandy, well-drained soil. Avoid excessively wet sites.

• Space plants 12-18 inches apart. Creeping phlox will quickly fill in to form a carpet of foliage and blooms.

• Water regularly until established. Mature plants have good drought tolerance but may require water during prolonged dry spells.

• Apply a thin layer of mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid burying the crowns.

• Prune back spent flower stems after blooming. This tidies up plants and encourages reblooming.

• Divide large patches every 2-3 years to rejuvenate growth. Transplant divisions in early spring or fall.

• Watch for signs of powdery mildew and spider mites, especially in hot or humid conditions. Improve airflow and avoid excessive watering.

The Verdict on Creeping Phlox and Deer

With its pleasant spring blooms and evergreen foliage, creeping phlox is a great choice for unmowed, informal areas of the garden. While not completely deer proof, its scented leaves and sap contain natural deterrents that make it one of the more deer-resistant options among flowering perennials.

Combining creeping phlox with companion plants, barriers, and commercial repellents can help create an even more deer-resistant landscape. Just be prepared to take extra precautions during times of extreme pressure when deer are more likely to sample a wider variety of plants. With a bit of creativity and diligence, you can enjoy creeping phlox while keeping deer at bay.