Nothing is more heart breaking than working hard to get your garden into top shape, only to have one or more of your plants chewed to the ground by your local rabbit population

Keeping rabbits from chewing on your garden plants can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can try to protect your plants from these furry herbivores:

  1. Physical barriers: Install fences or barriers around your garden to keep rabbits out. Use chicken wire or hardware cloth with small openings (1 inch or less) to prevent them from squeezing through. Make sure the fence is at least 2 to 3 feet high to deter rabbits from jumping over it.

  2. Repellents: Use natural or commercial rabbit repellents around your plants. These repellents emit smells or tastes that rabbits find unpleasant, deterring them from nibbling on your garden. Look for products containing garlic, hot pepper, or predator urine as active ingredients.

  3. Scare tactics: Rabbits are skittish animals, so employing scare tactics can be effective. Install motion-activated devices like sprinklers or noise makers that startle the rabbits when they approach the garden.

  4. Plant deterrents: Some plants have natural deterrent properties against rabbits. Consider adding rabbit-resistant plants to your garden, such as lavender, rosemary, yarrow, or agastache.

  5. Raised beds: Elevate your garden plants by using raised beds. Rabbits may be less likely to venture into higher areas where they feel more exposed and vulnerable.

  6. Netting or cages: Cover vulnerable plants with netting or place wire cages around them. This physical barrier will prevent rabbits from reaching the plants and munching on them.

  7. Remove attractants: Remove any potential food sources near your garden that might attract rabbits, such as fallen fruits or vegetables. Keeping the area around your garden clear will make it less appealing to these animals.

  8. Pet presence: Pets, especially dogs, can help deter rabbits from your garden. The scent and presence of a dog can keep rabbits away, as they perceive dogs as predators.

  9. Companion planting: Consider interplanting rabbit-resistant plants with more vulnerable ones. The strong-smelling or unpleasant-tasting plants may help deter rabbits from nearby plantings.

  10. Repellent sprays: You can make your own homemade rabbit repellent spray using ingredients like garlic, hot peppers, vinegar, or dish soap. Apply the spray directly to the plants to deter rabbits from feeding on them.

Remember to rotate your tactics periodically, as rabbits may become accustomed to some deterrent methods over time. By employing a combination of strategies, you can increase your chances of successfully protecting your garden plants from rabbit damage.