GARDENING FACT SHEET:
Click to View this Printable PDF file: “Gardening with Rabbits”
Rabbits can be a major challenge for gardeners, but there are several strategies to deter them, including choosing rabbit-resistant plants and implementing effective gardening practices.
While no plant is 100% rabbit-proof, the following plants are less appealing to rabbits due to their scent, taste, or texture:
Flowers:
- Marigolds
- Lavender
- Daffodils
- Salvia
- Alliums
- Snapdragons
- Coneflowers (Echinacea)
- Bleeding Heart
Herbs:
- Rosemary
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Sage
- Chives
- Basil
- Mint
Vegetables & Fruits:
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Onions
- Garlic
- Rhubarb
- Squash
- Cucumbers
Shrubs & Trees:
- Boxwood
- Barberry
- Lilac
- Juniper
- Butterfly Bush
- Spruce
Gardening Practices to Deter Rabbits:
1. Fencing- Install a rabbit-proof fence at least 2 feet high with 1-inch or smaller mesh. Bury the bottom 6 -12 inches to prevent burrowing.
2. Raised Beds & Containers- Growing plants in elevated beds or containers can make them harder for rabbits to access.
3. Repellents- Use natural deterrents like blood meal, crushed garlic, cayenne pepper, or commercial sprays with predator scents.
4. Mulching with Rough Materials- Rabbits dislike walking on sharp or coarse surfaces. Use gravel, crushed shells, or pinecones around plants.
5. Remove Shelter & Hiding Spots- Keep the garden clean by removing brush piles, tall grass, and other hiding places.
6. Companion Planting- Surround vulnerable plants with strong-smelling herbs like garlic or onions to mask their scent.
7. Decoys & Scare Tactics- Motion-activated sprinklers, fake owls, or even a pet dog or cat can help keep rabbits away.
