Identification

• Deer browsing is a common problem in areas where deer are abundant. Homeowners often notice an increase in damage when the weather conditions are dry and irrigation systems run daily. Deer browse woody plants and usually feed on foliage during the summer, twigs and buds in winter and tender young shoots in the spring. Feeding damage from deer browsing causes twigs and stems to appear rough, leaves are totally consumed and deer can strip the bark from the tree with their antlers.
  
  

Types

• Just like people, deer have their favorite food sources. Some trees deer prefer are pines, yew, juniper, Douglas fir, fruit trees, true fir, roses, wild red raspberry, mugo pine and aspen. According to the University of Florida, all members of the salix family, including weeping willow, are susceptible to moderate damage from deer feeding. Deer feed on the new growth on willow trees causing cosmetic damage to the tree.
  
  

Cultural Control

• Avoid planting trees and shrubs preferred by deer in your yard to limit browsing damage. Trees such as podocarpus, royal palm, thatch palm, pomegranate, persimmon, yaupon and ponytail palm are all considered resistant to deer browsing. Other plants such as gardenia, Chinese holly, bird of paradise and bottlebrush are also resistant to deer damage. If continued feeding is causing significant damage to your weeping willow tree, you may wish to remove it if the tree is unsightly.
  
  

Permanent Solutions

• Fencing is the only permanent solution to deer browsing. Constructing a fence that is high enough to keep deer out of your yard can eliminate damage to your weeping willow tree. Fences should be made of high tension wire or woven wire and should reach a height of at least 8 feet to keep deer out. Small areas can be protected with a shorter fence, as deer do not usually jump into very small spaces. Placing electric wire on the fence may also help keep deer out. Homeowners who do not want to place a fence around their property could try some repellent products available at any garden center. Placing a dog in your yard may also keep deer from coming in and feeding on your willow tree and other landscape plants.