Rabbits are a common invader of home gardens, especially when plants flower in spring. Kansas State University horticulture expert Matt McKernan said there are many common-sense ways to keep the hungry critters out.
“This time of year, rabbits gravitate to young vegetables and flowers,” McKernan said. “But there are some vegetables that are rarely bothered, including potatoes, tomatoes, corn, squash, cucumbers and some peppers.”
Matt McKernan said some methods for keeping rabbits away include:
Fencing
Fencing is often the quickest and easiest method of control. McKernan recommended the fence be at least two feet tall with a fine mesh of one inch or less. Fencing support can be provided by a variety of products, including electric fence posts. However, fencing may not be a viable choice based on the desired appearance of the garden.
Floating Row Cover
Floating row cover is a light woven material that can be placed over plants yet still allows light, water and air to come through.
“Though most often used to promote early growth by keeping plants warmer than normal, it can also help protect young plants from insects and wildlife,” McKernan said.
Repellants
Although commonly suggested for rabbit control, repellants must be re-applied frequently. Some can also be poisonous and cannot be used on plants intended for human consumption, McKernan warned.
Trapping
McKernan said live traps are usually recommended when the rabbit can be moved to a rural area several miles away from where they were initially caught.
“A number of baits can be used to entice the rabbit to enter the trap, including a tightly rolled cabbage leaf held together by a toothpick. However, rabbits often avoid baits if other attractive food is available.”
Sprinkler
A motion-activated sprinkler can be attached to a garden hose, releasing a short burst of water upon motion. McKernan suggests picking a product that advertises it can protect at least 1000 square feet: “Such products are available from Contech, Orbit and Havahart,” he said.
Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.
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