Two growing seasons are often required to replace the vegetative and fruiting buds of apple trees browsed during the winter. In addition to direct browsing damage, occasionally heavy use exposes plant tissues and can lead to frost damage. Observation of Plant Use Deer use of ornamental plants was studied during the winters of 1979-81 in 12 landscaped yards on foothill benches near Layton and Bountiful, Utah. Utilization of all plant species in each yard was evaluated in late winter by estimating the proportion of the current annual growth removed by mule deer. The lists are not inclusive and should serve only as guidelines.
Additional research is needed.
Deer will probably exhibit similar preferences for related plants. Winter Ranges Ornamental plants, which may be expected to receive heavy use by deer and are often permanently damaged, should not be planted unless they are completely protected. Many homeowners are willing to trade the opportunity to view wildlife in backyards for moderate browsing. Table 4 also lists some of the characteristics of these plants that may be useful in landscape design. Seeds and plant materials for some of these native shrubs may be available from commercial nurseries.