Do Rabbits Eat Petunias?
Wild rabbits such as cottontails will eat petunias or Petunia x hybrida. When petunias are planted in outdoor gardens, wild rabbits cause moderate to severe damage to the petunias, according to the Iowa State University Extension. Does this Spark an idea?
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Identification
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Rabbits can eat the entire petunia plant or just eat tender new shoots. Although rabbits may not be seen in the garden, they leave behind small piles of dark round droppings and may leave paw prints in dirt or mud.
Speculation
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Wild rabbits may not always eat petunias or cause noticeable damage, Iowa State University reports. Rabbit appetites for petunias vary depending on what other plants are available and how many rabbits are in the area.
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Control
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If rabbits have shelter on a property, they will be more inclined to stay on the property and browse. Remove long weeds, brush piles, mounds of stones or any places where rabbits can hide. If possible, place a chicken mesh fence about your petunias.
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References
Resources
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