Home Remedies for Keeping Rabbits out of Gardens

Despite their furry appeal, rabbits can be destructive to many plants.

Rabbits are a wonderful part of nature, but most gardeners do not welcome them in their yards. Their habits are destructive to many common plants, and they are hard to scare away.

Landscape Control

Some yards are overcome with rabbits because they are ideal habitats. Remove overgrown shrubs and excessive debris and seal off any holes under outbuildings or foundations, as these provide a rabbit's favorite hiding places.

Plant Deterrents

To naturally deter rabbits from your garden, certain plants hold no appeal. These include amaryllis, bleeding heart, echinacea, English ivy, lavender, rhododendron, rosemary and lilac.

Fences and Protectors

Fencing off a garden area will help in some cases, but this may not be practical for larger gardens. Use individual plant protectors around plants rabbits enjoy the most. Wire cylinders surrounding the plant and extending deep into the ground help protect each plant.

Repellents

Natural repellents can be used but are not always successful in the long term. These include socks filled with human hair, predator urine or vinegar. At times, dried blood has shown good results, according to Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station. Most repellents need to be reapplied frequently.

References

• Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station: Keeping Rabbits Away from Desirable Plants in Your Garden and Landscape

Resources

• Veggie Gardener: How to Keep Rabbits Out of Your Garden