Will Deer Eat Knockout Roses? Yes – And Here's What to Do

Will Deer Eat Knockout Roses? Yes – And Here's What to Do

Despite marketing claims, Knockout roses are not deer-resistant. Deer browse on virtually all roses, including Knockouts. If you have a deer population, they will likely eat them.

Deer Management Strategies

• Fencing: 8-foot fence is most reliable.
• Repellents: Rotate commercial repellents (e.g., putrescent egg solids, garlic-based) every few weeks.
• Companion planting: Surround with strongly scented herbs like lavender, rosemary, or mint.
• Motion-activated sprinklers: Can deter deer temporarily.

Consider planting truly deer-resistant shrubs like boxwood, spirea, or butterfly bush if deer pressure is high.