How do I plant my plants and shrubs?
by
Carolyn
+4
I live in an area of Texas and a lots of deer. We have a tall fence so the deer can't jump over. I have laid black plastic down to take care of the grass and weeds. Coming up Spring, I don't know whether to go with pebbles or mulch before planting plants and shrubs. Any suggestions welcome. (also deer resistant plants and shrubs). Thanks.
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Mulch will help keep the weeds down and hold in moisture so I think it's smart. You could put it down right after you plant. I'm not sure if this grows in Texas, but catmint is my all-time favorite deer resistant plant. They also never touch the yarrow in our yard.
Hi Carolyn, I would go with pebbles rather than mulch, as even mulch can be appetizing to deer as well.
Mulch will eventually rot down and become new soil for weeds. It should be replaced every 3-4 years. Pebbles (pea gravel) tends to migrate outside the beds. Both look good when they're installed; it's kind of up to you how you want your landscaping to look, naturalized or tailored. For our beds we chose the naturalized look. We used pea gravel for a path through our large bed in the back yard. Oh BTW we live in Montana......
Hi, Carolyn,
You're fortunate to be able to erect tall fencing!
Deer will avoid grey colored plants (Dusty Miller, etc.) Sage, Lavender, Thyme, Yarrow, Rosemary, Lamium, Cosmos, Castor Bean plant, Euphorbia, Dahlias, Coreopsis, Iris, Mints, Daffodils, Hyacinths. Green Giant Pines.
They appear to love Roses, Tulips, Hydrangeas, Smoke Bush, Nine Bark, Arborvitae, Holly, Day Lillies, Hostas, and will "taste test" Lilacs...unless you spray regularly with Liquid Fence Concentrate. Best of luck.