As I’m composing this post, it’s Sunday evening, and when I typed that title, I couldn’t help but think of the old saying: “Pride goeth before a fall”. That’s actually an adaptation of a verse in Proverbs, which reads: “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall”.
Over the years, I’ve learned not to plant certain things because of the affection appetite the deer have for them.
But there are a couple of perennials that I planted before I knew of the insatiable appetite of the deer for those tasty plants. Among those: hydrangea and gladioli.
So I’m proud to say that, for the first time in many years, we have hydrangea blooms. (True, I would love for the blooms to be blue, which would require that I make some changes to the soil. And I may work on that next year. But for right now, I’m just happy to have blooms.)
Motor Man and I installed a fence around this bed, and although it’s short enough that the deer could jump over it, so far, they haven’t done that in this particular flower bed.
As for the glads, protecting them has required metal posts, netting, zip ties, fishing line and almost nightly spraying with deer repellent.
SO worth it.
As for another flowerbed where we’ve also installed fencing, we did that to protect some garden phlox there. But, as a bonus, the sunflower seeds ‘planted’ as a by-product of the bird feeders, we now have a mini sunflower field.
They’re such cheerful, happy flowers.
We’ve also added a string of solar “Edison” lights around the flowerbeds to further discourage the deer from jumping over the fence.
So far, so good. But I also know how smart and destructive those beautiful, pesky critters are…..
~These Days Of Mine~
these days of mine 
Sounds like the battle lines are drawn and you’re determined to win – and it looks like you are. Such BEAUTIFUL flowers you have this year. I’m with you – I love the sunflowers that we get as a result of feeding the birds. Now to keep our resident weedeater from getting too close to them before they have a chance to bloom. Your ‘glads’ are so pretty.
Looks like you’ve done what you can to discourage “munchers” – they’re definitely driven by hunger but isn’t it great they haven’t eaten your hydrangea or gladioli! Love the photo with the string of lights surrounding the sunflower “garden” with a view of the river. I just love sunflowers!
Pam
yes, you are winning! for now )
Glad you’re winning some of the battles. And it all looks lovely!
everything’s looking so nice out there – I’m glad you’re able to have some flowers and still have the deer as well – I know it’s a thin-ice sort of situation, but looking good for now !
Sometimes you have to win the battle before the war. So far so good. Your hydrangeas & gladiolus are lovely.
So worth all the effort, what beautiful blooms and yard! Pretty light string, too. Didn’t know that could work. Those Glads look award worthy. 💐
Nice