Deer Orchard™ Starter Pack | Zone 4

As its common name implies, it is the northernmost eastern oak in the United States. It is a medium to large round canopied tree that prefers well drained, acidic loamy sands. It is found natively in upland mesic forests and thrives in coves, ravines and gentle to moderate slopes.. It is a fast growing, deciduous oak that provides reddish brown to bright red fall color. It is a favorite nesting destination for many species of birds and small mammals and is a dependable source of cover and mast for many game mammals, including whitetail deer. Its acorns are 3/4" to 1" and have a large flat cap that covers a quarter of the nut. Because of its value as a source of quality lumber, its wildlife value is often under appreciated.

Not only do deer love Chinese chestnuts, but you will find them tasty as well. They can be eaten roasted, boiled, or sautéed. A prickly 2–3½" seed husk encloses 1-4 nuts and will yield a ripened nut crop from mid to late September all the way through October.

Of hybrid origin, Kieffer Pear has harder fruits than Bartlett but the deer happily consume them with no problem. This selection is more resistant to fire blight and therefore a better choice over the earlier- fruiting Bartlett Pear in areas that experience warm, wet spring weather, especially in humid areas along the gulf coast where the disease can be an issue. Self-fertile but enjoy an even more reliable pollination/fruit set by planting another pear selection nearby, such as the later-fruiting Dr. Deer Pear that we offer for an extended season of sweet deer treats.

The sumac fruit is persistent on the shrub into winter. While the fruit may not be a favorite wildlife food, it is an important winter survival food. Birds, insects, and deer all use this shrub. It is the host for the hairstreak butterfly caterpillar. Deer will forage on the stems and fruit and birds will eat the berries in winter.