Pincushion plant

Question

I live in central NY. Just planted a pincushion plant. Have decided to go with a flower garden where I have some lilies and archillea, as deer, chipmunks, and squirrels destroyed my vegetable garden in raised beds. We have removed the raised beds and are focusing on flowers now, as veggies were not worthwhile. In two days, over 50% of the blooms are shredded and are scattered around the plant. The 1′ stalks remain. Any ideas? I’m so afraid that I won’t be able to have a flower garden either – thanks for any help- Kathy

Answer 1

Correction: ...pincushion plants are NOT known to be a serious attraction to deer, chipmunks or squirrels...

Answer 2

This is terribly frustrating!
The articles below have several ideas for deterring wildlife and I found a great article that lists many deer resistant plants.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/pincushion-flower/scabiosa-pincushion-flowers.htm
http://articles.dailypress.com/2011-08-25/features/dp-home-0825-garden-fight-deer-20110825_1_deer-population-liquid-fence-deer-fence

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/camouflage-gardening.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/deer/deer-repellents.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/get-rid-squirrels.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/chipmunk-control.htm

Answer 3

I'm sorry your vegetables and pincushion plant were destroyed! The scenario you describe almost sounds like major hail or wind damage, or damage from a torrential downpour. If none of these have occurred over the past couple of days, it might be time to start thinking about some serious pest control.

Although pincushion plants are known to be a serious attraction to deer, chipmunks or squirrels, you should know that any of those animals (except for maybe squirrels) will eat just about anything when food is scarce. So will rabbits (just because you haven't seen them that doesn't mean they're not around!).

These articles may help you get started on making your flower garden a less attractive buffet:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/chipmunk-control.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/beneficial/attracting-birds-of-prey.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/pincushion-flower/scabiosa-pincushion-flowers.htm