Produce like apples, grapes, cherries, pears, carrots, and snap peas are eaten by deer in nature, so go with whatever is in season in your area in the spring and summer months. [1] X Research source Acorns are a safe and natural food source that deer enjoy in the fall and winter months. [2] X Research source

White tailed deer prefer the following trees/shrubs: white cedar, birches, aspens, American yew, hemlock, maples, ash, white pine, mountain ash, scarlet elder, sumac, witch-hobble, and high bush cranberry. Avoid beech, balsam fir, spruces, and larch (these are unpalatable, indigestible, or both). [4] X Research source Scatter cut limbs in areas where you’ve spotted deer before (or put limbs in areas where you’d like to attract deer).

Since deer typically eat woody vegetation found in forests, don’t feed them foods that are rich in fats and carbohydrates.

Twigs, buds, and leaves of woody plants such as elms, honeysuckle, raspberry, black cherry, basswood, grape, and hawthorn are great choices. Leaf buds and evergreen leaves are especially important during winter in northern states. [7] X Research source

Once spring comes, wean deer off of supplemental food so that they can begin foraging for food on their own again. [10] X Trustworthy Source State of Indiana Official site for state-approved sources related to life in Indiana, including laws, services, and culture Go to source Keep in mind that year-round supplemental feeding is very controversial because it can be unsafe for deer and spread disease. Many wildlife organizations urge people not to do it and some states have made it illegal. [11] X Research source

Many states have outlawed feeding deer altogether, so it’s important to check. [13] X Research source To find out your local laws, check government wildlife and forest websites for your state.

Early morning or sunset are good times for feeding. An adult white-tailed deer eats about 5-7 pounds of food per day. [15] X Research source Try to avoid interacting with the deer since this makes them less fearful of humans, and more likely to become prey. [16] X Research source

These organizations know the proper times to feed deer and the right amount of food to give them.

Plant fruit trees (like apple trees), maple trees, or aspen trees on your property if you want to provide natural resources for deer.