One of my neighbors recently mentioned that rabbits
were eating their plants. They suspected the animals were sneaking in under
their wooden privacy fence and assumed they were coming from my yard, since
it’s known as a wildlife sanctuary.
Bob seemed pretty aggravated. I told him there are
several ways to prevent rabbits from munching on your garden, depending on your
budget and preferences. Here are some of the most common and effective methods:
Fencing: The Most Reliable Barrier
Fencing is hands-down the best way to keep animals out
of your garden. A wire fence at least 6 feet high and buried 12
inches underground can block deer from jumping and, rabbits, groundhogs and
other diggers.
To secure it properly:
- Dig a trench along the perimeter.
- Set the fence into the trench.
- Pour Quickrete or another fast-setting concrete to hold the
buried portion in place.
This prevents animals from burrowing underneath and protects your plants long-term.
If rabbits are your only concern, a 3-foot-high
fence with 12 inches cemented underground should be enough to stop
them from jumping over or digging under.
Repellents: Smell and Taste Deterrents
You can use natural or commercial repellents to
discourage rabbits. Popular natural options include:
- Dog fur, urine, or poop
- Blood meal
- Hot pepper or garlic spray
Keep in mind: repellents wear off, especially
after rain or watering. You’ll need to reapply frequently to maintain
effectiveness.
Motion-Activated
Sprinklers: A Startling Surprise
Some gardeners swear by motion-activated
sprinklers often called “scarecrow sprinklers.” When a rabbit triggers the
sensor, it gets hit with a sudden burst of water. It’s not harmful, but it’s
startling enough to send most rabbits running.
Final Recommendation
While repellents and sprinklers can help, I recommend a
one-time fence installation for lasting protection. It keeps rabbits and
other wildlife out of your garden without constant maintenance.
