Rabbits are adorable creatures known for their fondness for munching on fresh vegetation, including flowers. If you have a rabbit or live in an area with wild rabbits, it’s essential to be mindful of the types of flowers you plant. Certain flowers are more enticing to rabbits than others, and understanding their preferences can help you create a garden that is both aesthetically pleasing and rabbit-friendly. In this article, we will explore some of the flowers that rabbits are particularly fond of, along with strategies to protect your garden if you wish to keep rabbits at bay.
Tasty Delights
Rabbits have a wide range of flowers that they find particularly delectable. Some of the flowers that rabbits are known to enjoy include:
Marigolds (Tagetes): Rabbits are often attracted to marigolds, which have bright, colorful blooms. While marigolds are known for repelling some garden pests, rabbits seem to have a taste for their foliage.
Petunias (Petunia): Petunias are vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers available in a wide variety of colors. Unfortunately, rabbits find their succulent leaves and stems quite appetizing.
pansies (Viola × wittrockiana): Pansies, with their cheerful, “face-like” blooms, are a favorite among rabbits. Their tender foliage is irresistible to these herbivorous animals.
Lilies (Lilium): Rabbits have been known to munch on the foliage and flowers of various lily species. If you have rabbits in your area, it’s best to keep lilies protected, as some species can be toxic to them.
Preferred Greens
In addition to flowers, rabbits also have a fondness for certain types of leafy greens. These greens can include:
Lettuce (Lactuca sativa): Rabbits enjoy nibbling on lettuce leaves, which are crisp and refreshing. However, it’s important to feed lettuce to rabbits in moderation, as excessive consumption can lead to digestive issues.
Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla): The colorful stems and broad leaves of Swiss chard are a rabbit delicacy. If you have rabbits in your garden, protecting your Swiss chard plants may be necessary.
Spinach (Spinacia oleracea): The tender leaves of spinach are another favorite of rabbits. However, similar to lettuce, it’s best to provide spinach as a treat rather than a staple in their diet.
Rabbit-Resistant Alternatives
If you want to create a garden that is less appealing to rabbits, there are several flowers that are known to be more resistant to their browsing habits. Consider planting the following rabbit-resistant flowers:
Daffodils (Narcissus): Rabbits tend to avoid daffodils due to their toxic compounds, making them a safe and beautiful choice for your garden.
Geraniums (Pelargonium): Geraniums are known for their vibrant blooms and fragrant leaves. These flowers are generally unpalatable to rabbits, making them a great addition to a rabbit-friendly garden.
Lavender (Lavandula): Rabbits tend to steer clear of lavender due to its strong scent. Planting lavender not only adds a delightful fragrance to your garden but also helps deter rabbits.
Salvia (Salvia spp.): Salvia plants feature spikes of colorful flowers that rabbits typically avoid. These resilient flowers can add beauty and vibrancy to your garden while deterring rabbits.
Protective Measures
If you wish to protect your garden from rabbits, there are several strategies you can employ:
Fencing: Installing a sturdy wire fence around your garden can be an effective way to keep rabbits out. Make sure the fence is buried several inches into the ground to prevent rabbits from burrowing underneath.
Raised Beds: Creating raised beds can make it more challenging for rabbits to access your flowers. Elevated containers or planters can also be an option for growing flowers in rabbit-prone areas.
Repellents: There are commercial repellents available that can deter rabbits from your garden. These repellents often contain scents that rabbits find unpleasant. Ensure the repellents are safe for plants and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
Companion Planting: Planting rabbit-resistant flowers alongside more susceptible varieties can help protect the latter. The presence of rabbit-resistant flowers may make your garden less attractive to rabbits.
Conclusion
Rabbits have their preferences when it comes to flowers and greens, and being aware of their tastes can help you create a garden that is both visually appealing and less likely to attract these furry creatures. While rabbits may find certain flowers and greens irresistible, there are also rabbit-resistant alternatives that can thrive in your garden. Implementing protective measures such as fencing, raised beds, repellents, and companion planting can further safeguard your plants. By understanding the flowers that rabbits like and taking appropriate precautions, you can strike a balance that allows both you and these delightful animals to enjoy your garden spaces harmoniously.
