Will Deer Eat My Tomato Plants?

Tomato plants are a popular crop for gardeners, but they can also be a favorite food for deer. So, will deer eat your tomato plants?

The Answer

The answer is yes, deer will eat tomato plants. Deer are herbivores and will eat a variety of plants, including those found in your garden. Tomatoes are a particularly tasty treat for deer because they are high in sugar and easy to access.

Why Do Deer Eat Tomato Plants?

Deer often eat garden crops, including tomato plants, because they are attracted to the high sugar content in the fruits and vegetables. Additionally, tomato plants are easy for deer to access because they are often planted close to the ground and have a low hanging fruit.

How to Protect Your Tomato Plants?

There are several methods you can use to protect your tomato plants from deer. One effective method is to use physical barriers, such as deer netting or fencing. Deer netting is a lightweight and inexpensive material that can be draped over your tomato plants to create a barrier that prevents deer from getting to your plants.

Fencing is a more solid option, but can be more expensive and time-consuming to install. A 6-foot fence will usually be sufficient to deter deer, but you may need to add an electric wire at the top to prevent them from jumping over the fence.

You can also use deer repellents to protect your tomato plants. Deer repellents come in a variety of forms, including sprays, granules, and electronic repellents. These repellents work by creating a scent or sound that is unpleasant to deer, which will cause them to stay away from your garden.

Another effective method for protecting your tomato plants is to plant them in containers or raised beds. This will make it more difficult for deer to access your plants, especially if you place them on a covered porch or balcony.

In Conclusion

Deer will eat tomato plants, along with many other plants in your garden. However, there are several methods you can use to protect your tomato plants from deer, including physical barriers, deer repellents, and planting in containers or raised beds. By taking these steps, you can enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest without worrying about deer getting to your plants.