What Can You Plant Around Your Vegetable Garden to Keep Animals Out?

Incorporate unappealing plants around a vegetable garden to keep squirrels out.

Just about any hungry animal will find the veggies in your vegetable garden appealing, but squirrels, rabbits and deer tend to be the most persistent at feeding. While there are natural remedies, sprays and fences that can be used to keep them away, incorporating some resistant plants may do the trick as well.

Keeping Deer Out

The University of Vermont Extension recommends incorporating plants that deer have a dislike for, such as foxglove and daffodils. Additionally, plants that have a strong aroma -- chive, lavender, thyme and sage -- are a deterrent to deer.

Keeping Rabbits Out

According to Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, there are several annuals, perennials and groundcovers that may be effective at deterring rabbits. Some plants to try include impatiens, forget-me-nots, verbena, vinca and solanum.

Keeping Squirrels Out

To keep squirrels (and other animals) at bay, Colorado State University Extension Service suggests incorporating plants that are very aromatic and have tough leathery leaves. Some perennials cited as "critter resistant" are chives, iceland and oriental poppy, sage and thyme.

References

• Colorado State University Cooperative Extension: Rabbit/Ground Squirrel/Deer Resistant Plants
• University of Vermont Extension: Choosing Deer Resistant Landscape Plants
• Rutgers -- New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station: If Plants Could Talk -- Keeping Rabbits Away from Desirable Plants In Your Garden and Landscape