The Best Deer-Resistant Plants to Add to Your Landscape

f you garden in northwest New Jersey, you already know the truth about deer. They’re beautiful, persistent, and completely unimpressed by how much time you spent planning your landscape. Winter is the perfect season to step back, take notes, and start thinking about smarter plant choices for next year—especially when it comes to reducing deer damage.

At Donaldson’s Greenhouse, we often help gardeners plan landscapes that are both beautiful and more resistant to deer pressure, long before planting season begins.

What “Deer-Resistant” Really Means

No plant is completely deer-proof, especially when food is scarce. However, deer tend to avoid plants with strong scents, fuzzy or leathery leaves, bitter sap, or tough textures. Planning with these traits in mind can dramatically reduce browsing and frustration once the growing season starts.

Shrubs Deer Tend to Avoid

Certain shrubs consistently perform well in deer-heavy areas. Plants with aromatic foliage or dense structure are often passed over in favor of softer, more tender growth. These shrubs provide structure, seasonal interest, and a strong backbone for the landscape while holding their own against curious visitors.

Perennials That Hold Their Ground

Many popular perennials are less appealing to deer because of scent or texture. Lavender, salvia, ornamental grasses, and other resilient favorites bring color and movement to the garden while staying lower on the deer menu. Planning these into borders and foundation plantings helps create layers that feel intentional and balanced.

Smart Planting Strategies

Winter is also a great time to think about placement. Using deer-resistant plants along the edges of your landscape can help discourage browsing deeper into the garden. Mixing resistant plants throughout beds rather than isolating them creates a more natural look while still offering protection.

Planning Now Saves Stress Later

Taking time during winter to rethink plant choices can make spring planting smoother and more successful. When you plan with deer resistance in mind, you spend less time replacing plants and more time enjoying your landscape as it fills in and matures.

Visit Donaldson’s Greenhouse This Winter

Located at 178 Airport Road in Hackettstown, New Jersey, Donaldson’s Greenhouse has been a trusted local resource for gardeners navigating New Jersey’s unique growing challenges for generations. Whether you’re planning a new landscape or looking to make existing gardens more deer-resistant, our knowledgeable and friendly team is always happy to help. You can reach us at (908) 852-7314 or visit during our winter hours from January 2 through February 28, when we’re open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM and closed on Sundays. Even while the garden rests, we’re here to help you plan with confidence for the season ahead.