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Re: [SHADEGARDENS] Vinca - Deer

About the vinca: We moved into our present home in 1980. At this time, I
placed half-barrels of shade plants among the many trees which populate the
northern half of our acreage. It looked just like a park! And it was used
like a park when our son was small, with picnic table, and go-cart paths. I
had planted vinca minor in a barrel at the top of a slope overlooking the
creek and paths.

Time passed and son's interests followed other paths, away from the "park".
Then, some years later, I noticed that the barrel had crumbled from
age/neglect but the vinca had spread all over the slope! Gorgeous!  This is
a beautiful deep green-leafed plant with tiny purple flowers.  The sight of
this "bed of vinca" made me realize that it might look very nice as a
ground cover in my main garden near the house. So now, all of my garden
plants pop up from under this lush green cover to make an appearance.  I
don't consider vinca a threat to other plants of size, but consider it a
form of protection from wind, sun, etc., keeping the ground more moist and
cool, perhaps.  It really is very pretty.  If I want to plant something
new, I ruthlessly dig out a spot for my new plant....it soon covers again,
completely.

About the deer: We have deer in the area, too, but have not been bothered
by them. I suspect it may be due to our two dogs on sentry....don't know.
But, if I were offering advice, I'd first suggest fencing and dogs.  If
that didn't work, and the deer are so hungry as to risk the dogs and jump
the fence, I might be tempted to feed the deer....outside the fence. Do
they eat alfalfa hay? It might be worth a try, anyway.  What do you think?

Sherryl Sandersfeld Norman, OK zone7a
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