Despite their endearing appearance, rabbits are notorious for their insatiable appetite and impressive jumping abilities, making them a formidable force in any garden. At night, they’ll sneak in and devour your prized lettuce and other edible delights. To protect your plants, it’s essential to understand which ones won’t satisfy their cravings.
By incorporating unpalatable plants into your garden design, you can create a natural barrier that keeps these hungry hoppers at bay, safeguarding your produce from unwanted snacking.
15 Plants Rabbits Won’t Bother
Rabbits have a unique affinity for lettuce and other tender greens, but they tend to disregard certain plants altogether. The reason behind this is quite interesting. It turns out that bunnies are not fond of strong-smelling plants or those with unusual leaf textures. Additionally, rabbits will leave alone any plant featuring prickly stems or foliage. Their keen instincts also guide them to avoid anything toxic.
In fact, they’re smart enough to steer clear of poisonous plants, which is important to keep in mind when combining edibles in your garden. For instance, make sure you don’t accidentally harvest rhubarb leaves alongside your kale – it’s a common mistake, but an easy one to avoid with a little caution!
Onions
Onions are a culinary staple that chefs rely on heavily. With their unparalleled ability to infuse dishes with a depth of flavor, onions seamlessly integrate into a wide range of cuisines. The pungent aroma that characterizes this humble ingredient is precisely what repels rabbits – they find the scent overwhelming and unpleasant.
Leeks
Leeks, belonging to the same botanical family as onions, possess a potent aroma that serves as a natural repellent for various small rodents. This characteristic is not unique to leeks alone; other members of the allium family, such as green onions and chives, share this trait, making them unappealing to rabbits.
Peppers
To deter rabbits from snacking on your garden, try sprinkling hot pepper powder or pepper flakes around the area. This natural deterrent is unappealing to rabbits, who tend to avoid mature pepper plants in particular due to their fruit’s unpleasant taste. However, be sure to provide protection for your seedlings as young stems may still be vulnerable to rabbit nibbling.
Rhubarb
While the ripened stalks of the rhubarb plant are edible, the majority of the plant itself is toxic to humans. Interestingly, even rabbits, which typically have a more adventurous palate than humans, tend to avoid this particular plant.
Summer Squash
The notion that summer squash’s spiky stems are what deter rabbits is plausible. While I might find those barbs inconvenient, it’s undeniable that they serve as a natural defense mechanism against rabbit encroachment.
Basil
When it comes to keeping rabbits at bay, few herbs are as effective as the highly fragrant basil. While this herb is typically known for its culinary uses, it also has a unique property that makes it unappealing to these pesky critters: its strong aroma. To maximize its rabbit-repelling potential, consider interplanting your basil among other rabbit favorites like lettuce and carrots.
This strategic placement will not only keep the rabbits away from your prized herbs but also encourage them to focus their attention on less desirable plants instead. Additionally, basil’s compost can be used to further deter rabbits from visiting other areas of your garden. The pungent scent it emits has been known to repel these hungry herbivores, protecting your entire garden from unwanted snacking.
Mint
As my daily ritual, I gently tousle the foliage of my herb plants each morning, releasing the inviting aroma of this low-maintenance perennial. The fragrance is a treat for me, but it seems to be less than appealing to local rabbits. It’s worth noting that other members of the mint family, such as catmint and catnip, share a similar property – they are unappealing to hares.
Bee Balm
While its appeal lies in being a magnet for beneficial insects like bees and hummingbirds, this particular plant has a less-than-stellar reputation among another group of critters – namely, rabbits. Its unappealing nature to these furry creatures is just one of the many characteristics that make it a standout in any garden or outdoor space.
Black-Eyed Susan
This vibrant, miniature sunflower-like perennial stands out with its bright yellow blooms. Not only does it thrive in a range of soil types, but it’s also incredibly easy to cultivate. Its appeal doesn’t stop there – the daisy-like flowers attract a diverse array of pollinators, and fortunately, rabbits aren’t enticed by this charming plant.
Poppies
Since rabbits tend to avoid delicate perennial blooms, consider replacing them with alternative varieties that are more appealing to these furry friends. These showy flowers will still thrive throughout the summer months, displaying a kaleidoscope of colors for your enjoyment.
Yarrow
While many gardeners struggle to keep rabbits at bay, it’s surprising to note that these furry critters tend to shun plants that attract pollinators. One such plant is yarrow, a wildflower renowned for drawing in butterflies and other beneficial insects with its delicate white blooms. A low-maintenance option that returns year after year, yarrow’s appeal lies not only in its aesthetic charm but also in its ability to support local ecosystems.
Sweet Alyssum
Rabbits tend to leave this unassuming yet resilient bloom alone, thriving in poor soil conditions and spreading rapidly to create lush blankets of petite flowers. Its ability to flourish in arid environments makes it an excellent selection for water-scarce gardens and rock gardens alike.
Marigolds
While it’s tempting to tempt fate, I’ll take a moment to acknowledge the resilience of marigolds before diving into their remarkable characteristics. In my experience, these flowers are nothing short of indestructible. Not only do they thrive when grown from seed, but once established, they produce an unrelenting cascade of blooms that persists until the first frost sets in.
I’ve witnessed firsthand their ability to withstand even the most severe challenges – including a slug infestation that decimated neighboring flowerbeds – and their distaste for being rabbit snacks. The golden hue of these hardy blooms is just one aspect of their impressive durability.
Sunflowers
While rabbits may enjoy snacking on sunflower seeds and leaves, they typically leave the blooms untouched. However, it’s not uncommon for curious bunnies to investigate these vibrant flowers. Fortunately, there are simple and effective ways to discourage rabbits from feasting on your sunflowers. One approach is to plant pungent crops or spread potent-smelling powders around the base of the plants. These unappealing scents will likely deter rabbits from venturing too close to your prized blooms.
Milkweed
While monarch butterflies rely exclusively on milkweed as their primary source of sustenance, it’s crucial to note the plant’s toxic properties, which pose a risk not just to these iconic pollinators but also to domestic animals like dogs and rabbits. The perennial’s sap is notoriously hazardous, underscoring the importance of caution when handling or introducing this species into ecosystems.
Ageratum
The vibrant purple blooms of Ageratum are not only a treat to the human eye but also serve as a magnet for bees and butterflies. Moreover, these flowers possess an added benefit – they act as a natural deterrent against unwanted visitors like rabbits, which tend to steer clear of this lovely herb.
Lantana
While hummingbirds have a weakness for the vibrant blooms of lantana, rabbits tend not to be as enthusiastic about their presence. One creative way to utilize these flowers is by planting them in containers and strategically placing them amidst other decorative plants. This clever tactic can help deter those pesky rabbit hoppers from making themselves at home.
Vinca
Vinca is an ideal choice for filling gaps in partially shaded areas, offering a reliable groundcover solution. Its unappealing nature to rabbits makes it a useful deterrent plant, allowing you to create a protective barrier around sensitive flora while still enjoying a visually appealing garden.
Geraniums
Geraniums have earned their spot as a beloved garden staple due to their remarkable ability to produce an abundance of colorful blooms throughout the growing season. Their vibrant display, which often features hues of pink, red, yellow, and orange, is certainly a draw for many gardeners. Furthermore, these flowers offer the added advantage of being unappealing to rabbits and deer, making them a great choice for those looking to protect their gardens from unwanted critters.
Begonia
When it comes to adding a pop of color to your outdoor space, begonias are an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor use. Not only do they make stunning houseplants, but strategically placing them throughout your garden can also deter hungry bunnies from getting too curious. With their vibrant hues and easy care requirements, begonias are the perfect solution for adding a splash of color to your surroundings.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes may be one of the most popular garden fruits, but they also have some unique characteristics that make them stand out from other edible plants. Not only do they pack a punch in terms of nutritional value and flavor, but they’re also relatively low-maintenance to grow and happen to be completely rabbit-repellent – all thanks to their membership in the nightshade family, where the leaves are toxic.
Globe Thistle
Globe thistle’s unique charm lies in its ability to thrive in dry conditions, making it an ideal choice for gardens where water conservation is a priority. But what truly sets this drought-tolerant perennial apart is its striking display of purple, spherical blooms that not only draw the eye but also attract a variety of pollinators like butterflies and bees.
As an added bonus, these flowers provide a natural barrier against rabbits and deer, making globe thistle a versatile and low-maintenance addition to any garden.
Wormwood
For generations, the humble mugwort plant has held a special place in traditional medicine gardens. Its versatility has led to its use in addressing various stomach complaints, as well as its role in crafting the infamous spirit, absinthe. Interestingly, despite its long history of medicinal use, this hardy perennial remains unappealing to rabbits.
Lavender
Lavender, a timeless favorite among garden enthusiasts, boasts a unique charm that transcends its ease of cultivation. Its distinctive aroma and breathtaking blooms make it an excellent choice for those seeking a low-maintenance yet visually striking addition to their outdoor spaces. The added bonus of being unappealing to bunnies is merely the icing on the cake.
Tarragon
While tarragon may not be a favorite among rabbit enthusiasts due to its connection to sunflowers, this versatile herb is a staple in many kitchens. Its understated yet distinctive anise-like flavor makes it an excellent complement to a range of dishes, from eggs and chicken to fish and beyond.
Thyme
Thyme is a member of the mint family, boasting widespread global usage as a popular herb. While readily available in most supermarkets, cultivating thyme in your own garden can be a rewarding experience.
Its adaptability and numerous applications make it an attractive choice for gardeners. The fact that rabbits tend to avoid it, if not entirely immune to their interest, is merely an added bonus.
Sage
Sage, a member of the mint family and native to the Mediterranean region, has gained popularity globally, finding its way into countless gardens. Its reputation as a repellent for rabbits is so well-established that some gardeners take to sprinkling dried sage around vulnerable plants, hoping to deter these pesky critters from making off with their prized foliage.
While its effectiveness remains uncertain, it’s certainly an unconventional method worth exploring – especially if you have an abundance of leaves at your disposal.
Sedum
Whether in bloom or not, this stunning succulent – also known as stonecrop – is sure to captivate. With its diverse array of sizes and shapes, it’s easy to find a specimen that will add visual interest to your garden while serving the added benefit of deterring rabbits.
How to Deter Rabbits
While it’s great that you’ve taken steps to deter rabbits from eating your plants, if they’re still getting to other parts of your garden, there are a few things you can try. But first, let’s make sure we’re actually dealing with rabbit damage rather than something else. One way to confirm is to catch the culprit in the act – literally. If you have an outdoor camera, you can easily capture footage of any nocturnal munching that might be happening.
Without a camera, there are other signs that rabbits may be visiting your garden. For instance, look out for rabbit droppings – these hard, round pellets are a telltale sign that the furry critters are nearby. Additionally, if you spot tender seedlings cut clean off at the base of their stems, it could be a rabbit problem on your hands. And finally, if you’re seeing holes around your garden but no tunnels, it’s likely not rabbits causing the damage – more likely groundhogs or woodchucks.
Different Techniques to Try
When it comes to keeping rabbits out of your garden, there’s more to it than just planting unappealing vegetation. Here are some additional strategies to deter these furry pests:
Firstly, utilise pungent substances. Rabbits have a keen sense of smell, so scattering hot pepper powder or similar irritants around your garden can effectively repel them.
Next, employ stem protection measures.
To prevent seedlings from being devoured at the base, use collars to safeguard vulnerable plants once they’re transplanted outside in spring.
In some cases, humane trapping might be the most effective solution. Alternatively, consider installing a fence that’s at least 4 feet high to physically exclude rabbits from your garden.
Other barrier options can also prove effective. For instance, cold frames can protect delicate winter-grown lettuce from hungry rabbits.
Finally, clear any debris around your property, and especially near your garden, to discourage rabbits from establishing themselves in your yard. By reducing potential hiding spots, you’ll make it harder for them to rest between meals.
Why You Should Keep Rabbits Away
Rabbits are often seen as endearing creatures, but their appetite is often underestimated. While it’s amusing to watch them nibble on lettuce leaves, they’re capable of wreaking havoc on ornamental crops. In fact, if you spot one rabbit, it’s likely a sign that there’s a family nearby, and they’re probably multiplying quickly.
Moreover, rabbits reproduce at an alarming rate, making it crucial to take measures to prevent them from overpopulating your garden.
However, with some simple adaptations and strategic plant selection, it’s possible to coexist peacefully with these furry critters.
A Few Words of Caution
When utilizing store-bought rabbit repellents, it’s essential to scrutinize the packaging before application. Some products may not be safe for use on edible plants, and you wouldn’t want any unintended consequences. When cultivating your garden, take extra care when introducing toxic plants, especially if you have pets or young children around. It’s crucial to exercise caution and place these hazardous plants in a secure location, away from any potential access points.
This includes the perimeter of your property, such as along sidewalks or near neighboring properties, as not everyone may be aware of the plant’s toxicity.
