Rabbit Control

Not all gardeners are bothered by rabbits, but for those of us who are it can take up a lot of time and money. It is all about controlling these cute pests. Methods include, plant selection, fencing them out and repellants.

● Plant selection is very important. Most rabbits will only visit an area to feed 4 to 5 times before they move to other area. If they are not able to find food they will use their energy finding other food sources. I live in rabbitville and have used plant selection and fencing to keep rabbits out. I have spent several seasons studying what plants they have left alone and plant them.
Here is a list of plants that are left alone in my gardens.

Daylilies, Caryopsis, Nepeta, Saliva, Dianthus, Summer Phlox, Oriental Poppies, Ninebark, Hosta and Daffodils. 

● Fencing may sound time consuming and expensive but it does have to be. I have several of these portable metal cages that I move around as needed. My husband used large washers and screws to hold together and it work perfect. It is important to know what that rabbit will leave certain plants alone. Those include hairy leaf plants, such as Oriental Poppies once they mature. It is important to remember that some perennials have very tender tasty leave while they emerge in the spring, be prepared to protect until they mature. 

Turns out they don’t care to dig, so bury your fencing 4 to 6 inches and you will be safe.

 

● Repellants are just that, they repel. A rabbits only defense is their nose and they will protect that at any cost. You will find many products in nurseries that do work, but you must follow the package directions; that is key for success. I also use fish emulation as a repellent, not only do rabbits hate the smell your plant love the nutrient value.

 
I hope this helps with your rabbit situation, don’t hesitate to let me know if you have found things that work, I will share them with other gardeners.