Do Deer Eat Geraniums? What Rabbits, Deer, and Other Animals Do to Geraniums

Geraniums are a popular choice in many gardens because they’re colorful, easy to grow, and adaptable. But one question often comes up: do deer eat geraniums, and do rabbits eat geraniums?

The short answer is yes—but not always. While geraniums are often considered resistant plants, they’re not completely safe from damage. In some cases, it simply comes down to the taste that deer develop, especially when food is scarce. Understanding how these animals interact with geraniums is the first step to protecting your garden.

Are Geraniums Deer Resistant?

Many gardeners ask, are geraniums deer resistant or even are geraniums deer proof. The reality is somewhere in between.

Geraniums are often labeled as a deer resistant plant because of their strong smell and taste. Some varieties, especially hardy geranium, have a slightly bitter taste that makes them less appealing to deer.

However, geraniums and deer can still be a problem. If food is scarce, deer will eat almost anything. That means will deer eat geraniums? Yes, especially during dry periods or in areas with high deer pressure.

So while claiming geraniums are deer resistant is generally true, they are not fully deer proof.

Do Rabbits Eat Geraniums?

Another common question is do rabbits eat geraniums or will rabbits eat geraniums. Rabbits tend to be less selective than deer, especially when food is limited.

• Young plants are more vulnerable
• Tender leaves are easier for rabbits to eat
• Newly planted beds attract browsing

So, do rabbits eat geraniums? Yes, they can, especially early in the season when plants are soft.

What Animals Eat Geraniums?

If you notice damage, you may wonder what animals eat geraniums.

Common culprits include:

• Deer, which may nibble on geraniums leaves and stems
• Rabbits, which often chew plants close to the ground
• Occasional insects or small mammals

Most damage appears in garden beds, especially during early summer when plants are actively growing.

Why Some Geraniums Are Less Attractive

Geraniums are considered geraniums deer resistant plants for a reason. Their natural oils give them a scent that helps deter deer.

• Strong foliage scent discourages browsing
• Slightly bitter flavor reduces feeding
• Some varieties are more resistant than others

Still, no plant is completely safe. Even plants labeled geranium deer proof can be eaten under pressure.

How to Protect Your Garden from Deer and Rabbits

If animals are causing problems, a few simple strategies can help.

Physical Barriers

Fencing is one of the most effective solutions.

• Use wire fencing around beds
• Install barriers early in the season
• Protect young plants first

This is especially helpful for annual geraniums, which are more tender.

Use Natural Deterrents

A deer deterrent can help reduce browsing.

• Apply scent-based repellents
• Reapply after rain
• Rotate products to maintain effectiveness

These methods work best when combined with other strategies.

Smart Plant Placement

Where you plant matters.

• Place geraniums closer to the house
• Mix them with other resistant plants
• Avoid isolated planting areas

This reduces the chance that animals will target them.

Maintain Healthy Plants

Strong plants recover better from damage.

• Use well-drained soil
• Water during dry periods
• Avoid stress from overcrowding

Healthy, drought tolerant plants are less likely to suffer long-term damage.

Geranium Varieties to Consider

If you’re gardening in an area with deer or other wildlife, it’s helpful to choose plants that are generally less attractive to browsing animals. Many hardy geraniums (cranesbills) fall into this category—they are often described as deer-resistant, though no plant is completely deer-proof.

Here are a few reliable geraniums to consider:

• Geranium (Rozanne Cranesbill) - Known for its vigorous, spreading habit and exceptionally long bloom period, this variety is a dependable performer in many garden settings. Like other cranesbills, it is commonly regarded as less appealing to deer.
• Geranium maderense (Ginormous Geranium) – Grown for its bold size and architectural presence, this striking species adds structure and visual impact. While not specifically singled out in deer-resistance studies, it shares general traits of the geranium group that are often associated with lower browsing preference.
• Geranium pyrenaicum (Bill Wallis Hedgerow Cranesbill) – A more naturalistic choice, this variety works well in informal or meadow-style plantings. As with many cranesbills, it is typically considered a lower-priority food source for deer.

You can explore more options in this geranium collection to find plants suited to your garden.

Conclusion

So, do deer like geraniums? Not usually, but they will eat them if necessary. The same goes for rabbits. While geraniums are often listed as geraniums deer resistant, they are not completely protected from damage.

The key to success is combining plant choice with smart garden practices. By using barriers, repellents, and thoughtful placement, you can reduce damage and keep your garden looking its best. 

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