Basil is the sort of strong smelling and tasting herb deer hate, but-- we've all seen how adaptable deer can be.

Yep. Every time I see a nice open place I imagine it with plants on it, gently harmonizing with the landscape.... And then, as the record screeches to a stop, I have to imagine them surrounded by a high deer fence!

They don't eat artemisia, yarrow, digitalis, convallaria, aconitum, astilbe, pulmonaria, ferns.... yes, there are a few things you can grow.

Well, you're right, oldroser, I'll have to learn more about what they'll leave alone if I'm to garden successfully here. Part of is that I enjoy growing edibles, and I don't eat those things either!

You need a fence if you are to be successful, NYgardener. LOL.

http://www.sunset.com/garden/garden-basics/deer-proof-country-garden-00400000017025/
This article has 2 of the best fences for keeping deer out of gardens.