Plant Ideas: Deer Tolerant

Deer-Tolerant Plants for Okanagan Gardens

Living in the Okanagan means enjoying breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and four distinct seasons. While seeing deer wander through our neighbourhoods can be a beautiful reminder of where we live, it often comes at the expense of carefully designed gardens. We are frequently asked at MK Design Group how to create a landscape that is both beautiful and less appealing to deer.

The reality is that no plant is completely deer-proof. When food is scarce, deer will browse almost anything. However, many plants are considered deer tolerant because of their texture, fragrance, or flavour, making them far less attractive than other landscape favourites.

Here are some of our favourite deer-tolerant plants that perform well in Okanagan landscapes.

Shrubs

Oregon Grape (Mahonia aquifolium)

Why we love it:

• Evergreen interest throughout the year

• Drought tolerant once established

• Supports local birds with it’s purple berries and pollinators with it’s yellow flowers

• Excellent for naturalized landscapes and shaded gardens

  
  

Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii)

Why we love it:

• Long blooming season, cultivars can come in a variety of colours

• Attracts butterflies and bees

• Thrives in full sun

  
  

Barberry (Berberis spp.)

Why we love it:

• Outstanding foliage colour year-round (from lime green to deep burgandy)

• Low maintenance

• Naturally thorny, discouraging browsing

• Excellent used in hedge form or stand-alone garden anchor piece

Deer-Tolerant Perennials

Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

Why we love it:

• Extremely drought tolerant

• Highly fragrant

• Long-lasting blooms

• Perfect for xeriscape and Mediterranean-style gardens

Blue Fescue (Festuca glauca)

Why we love it:

• Unique colour and the fine ornamental grass texture making this a  deterrent for deer

• Low water requirements

• Easy maintenance

• Great for borders and mass plantings

Allium (Allium spp.)

Why we love it:

• Eye-catching blooms with dramatic globe shapes

• Excellent cut flowers

• Pollinator friendly

• Deer resistant due to their strong onion-like scent

Important Note: While ornamental alliums are an excellent choice for deer-prone gardens, they are toxic to dogs and cats if ingested. If you have curious pets, consider planting them in areas that are inaccessible or choosing alternative species.

Deer-Tolerant Annuals

Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas)

Why we love it:

• Vibrant foliage colours

• Excellent spiller for containers

• Fast growing providing season-long interest

Zinnia (Zinnia elegans)

Why we love it:

• Continuous blooms with a wide variety of colours

• Excellent cut flowers

• Attracts butterflies

Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)

Why we love it:

• Long blooming season

• Great for spring and fall colour

• Excellent cut flowers and available in a wide range of heights and colours

When Are Deer Most Active?

Understanding deer behaviour can help reduce unwanted visits.

During the spring, they browse heavily on fresh new growth, while late summer and fall often see increased feeding as they prepare for winter. In periods of drought or harsh winters, deer may become less selective and sample plants they would normally avoid. Consider protective barriers if planting in early spring or late fall or scent deterrents in easily accessible areas for deer.

Designing with Wildlife in Mind

At MK Design Group, we believe great landscapes work with the environment—not against it. Thoughtful plant selection, combined with smart landscape design and practical deterrents, creates outdoor spaces that thrive in the unique conditions of the Okanagan.

If you're planning a new landscape or renovating an existing garden, our team can help you choose plants that are well suited to your property, your lifestyle, and the realities of living alongside Okanagan wildlife.