Rabbits may look harmless, but their nibbling can wreak havoc on your landscaping. Small trees and shrubs, including rose bushes, pines, and red maple, are vulnerable to rabbit damage, especially during winter. Here are four safe and effective ways to protect your property from these nibling creatures.
1. Create a Rabbit-Resistant Perimeter
Establishing a protective barrier around susceptible trees, shrubs, and plant material is one of the most effective ways to keep rabbits from damaging your property. Install wire mesh fencing with small openings at least two feet above ground. To prevent rabbits from crawling underneath fencing, bury the bottom at least three to six inches below the ground.
2. Maintain a Clean and Tidy Yard
Rabbits are attracted to cluttered areas that provide good hiding spots. Keep your lawn clean and tidy by removing debris, tall grass, and vegetation. Regularly inspect your property for any signs of rabbit activity and address potential nesting areas.
3. Plant Rabbit Resistant Plants and Shrubs
To help deter rabbits from your property, plant rabbit-resistant shrubs. These shrubs and plant materials include:
- Butterfly Bush
- Red Dogwood
- Iris
- Holly
- Azalea
- Daffodil
- Black-eyed Susan
- Lavender
- Lilac
- Catmint (also deters mosquitos!)
4. Apply All-Natural Rabbit Repellent
Applying an all-natural rabbit repellent to your property is a safe, easy, and effective way to get rid of rabbits on your property. There are repellents you can buy and apply yourself, but make sure you understand the product you are buying as some can be dangerous or toxic. At Pure Solutions, we offer all-natural rabbit control services that are safe for you, your pets, rabbits, and other wildlife. Our sprays work by emitting strong smells and tastes that rabbits do not like, keeping them off your property.
Pure Solutions' exclusive product also works to deter deer from eating your vegetation! Click here to learn how to check for signs of deer damage.
By implementing these proactive measures, you can help prevent rabbit damage this winter and enjoy a pristine yard come spring. Not only are you safely shielding your property from damage, but you are also taking steps toward a more sustainable outdoor space.
Any questions? Contact our office team at info@puresolutions!
Sources:
Jauron, Richard. Protecting Trees and Shrubs against Rabbits in Winter, Iowa State University, 1 Dec. 2014, www.extension.iastate.edu/smallfarms/protecting-trees-and-shrubs-against-rabbits-winter.
PennState Extension. “Rabbit-Resistant Garden and Landscape Plants.” Master Gardener, extension.psu.edu/programs/master-gardener/counties/pike/publications/rabbit-resistant-garden-and-landscape-plants. Accessed 12 Jan. 2024.
