Fence to Keep Rabbits Out of a Garden
Wild rabbits can do considerable damage to a garden because they eat almost anything, such as vegetables, young flowers and even tree bark. They use their incisors to bite cleanly through plants, while deer leave rough edges. Does this Spark an idea?
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Types
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Chicken wire fencing with holes 1 inch wide or smaller is effective at keeping rabbits out of the garden, provided it is buried at least 6 inches into the soil and secured with landscaping pins, according to the University of California. Galvanized or plastic-coated chicken wire is more durable and safer than other types of wire. Staple the wire to 24-inch stakes driven 8 inches into the ground.
Considerations
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Rabbits are more likely to destroy gardens in the spring when they are hungry and when food sources are few. High rabbit populations also create more pressure on rabbits to seek food in your yard. Rabbits prefer lush, new growth over woody, mature plants. Placing a cloche over newly planted perennials until they are bigger may deter rabbits.
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Use
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After installing chicken wire fences, monitor them periodically to ensure rabbits aren't digging under them. Use fences in conjunction with other methods, such as odor and taste repellents and trapping. A barking dog in the yard is sometimes enough to deter rabbits.
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References
Resources
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