I've been gardening in the Minnesota area for about five years now, focusing on pollinator-friendly and low-maintenance plants. However, this spring, I've found that rabbits have completely destroyed many of my plants! I've seen their tracks and droppings, and I'm worried about how to tackle this problem. I have two main options in mind: should I trap and relocate the rabbits or find plants that they won't eat? Last winter and spring, they ravaged plants like heuchera, creeping phlox, lilac, and more. I'd love some advice on how to keep them away from my shrubs or suggestions for alternative plants that rabbits tend to avoid.
3 Answers
I'm a bit skeptical about the idea that rabbits can take out a five-foot tree. I mean, those things are pretty tall! But I guess if they can climb up on snow banks, they might reach more than we think. Just be careful about what you’re saying as it can make it hard to find solutions if you're not sure of what’s happening.
Thanks for your input! I didn't realize how much access the snow can give them.
A trail camera might be the best way to really figure out what's going on. If you find that it is indeed rabbits, trapping and relocating them legally could be a good option. Just remember to follow local laws regarding wildlife. It’s all about keeping your garden safe without causing harm to the critters!
I feel your pain! One thing I've done is use hardware cloth collars around my vulnerable plants right at the base. This keeps the rabbits out but doesn't hurt them, and you can remove them once the plants are established and there’s more food around for the bunnies. Just a simple fix that really helps!
I was skeptical too, but it's true! When it snows, they can reach higher branches and cause some serious damage. I lost a Japanese maple because of that—totally stripped it down! It's essential to be sure what’s actually causing the damage.