Something Eating My Hibiscus

Question:

I just planted two small hibiscus plants outside this early fall season, and something has cut off (or eaten) all the small branches and leaves from the plant. Are there any animals or birds that would devour this plant? Do you think it'll come back next spring? How can I prevent to from happening again?

Hardiness Zone: 6a

Donna from Sterling Heights, MI

Answer:

It sounds like you have deer in your neighborhood. As days grow shorter in the fall, it's common for them to leave the woods in search of food. They happen to love hibiscus. Whether yours will come back again in the spring depends on how much damage was done and whether the plants had enough to time to settle in and establish good roots.

Organic Deer Repellent

Here is an organic recipe for repelling deer:

• 1 egg
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tbsp dish soap
• 1 tbsp cooking oil

Mix this with one gallon of water and apply with a spray bottle every 1 to 2 weeks (and after rain). Unfortunately, during times when food is in short supply, deer will eat just about anything and repellants become less effective.