Protecting Young Forsythias from Deer: Fencing Is Essential

Deer are eating my 2nd-year forsythias. Will they survive? Should I fence?

Deer Will Kill Them

Repeated browsing on young shrubs = stunted growth or death. Forsythia's vigor helps, but not at this stage.

Best Protection: Physical Barrier

• Perimeter deer fence: 6+ ft tall (deer jump high). Expensive but permanent.
• Individual cages: 6-ft wire mesh, 2–3 ft from plant. Good for few shrubs.
• Group enclosure: If close together, fence the whole bed.

Repellents? Unreliable

Sprays wash off; deer habituate. Fencing is the only sure solution.

Long-Term

Mature forsythia (4–5 ft+) tolerates some browsing. Protect until then.