When it comes to gardening, one of the most frustrating problems is dealing with garden pests. Among these pests, bunnies can be particularly troublesome as they have a penchant for munching on a wide variety of plants. However, there are certain plants that bunnies tend to leave alone, and understanding these can save your garden from being a bunny buffet.
Pollinators play a crucial role in a healthy garden ecosystem. And some of the plants that attract pollinators are also unappealing to bunnies. For example, lavender is a well - known plant for attracting bees and butterflies. Its strong, fragrant aroma that is so appealing to pollinators is exactly what turns bunnies off. Lavender has long, slender stems with purple - blue flowers that add a touch of elegance to any garden. It thrives in full sun and well - drained soil, making it relatively easy to care for. Planting lavender along the edges of your garden can act as a natural barrier against bunnies.
Another pollinator - friendly plant that bunnies avoid is salvia. There are many different varieties of salvia, each with its own unique color and shape of flowers. The tubular flowers of salvia are perfect for hummingbirds and other long - tongued pollinators. The taste and smell of salvia are not to the liking of bunnies. Salvia prefers full sun and can tolerate dry conditions, so it's a great choice for gardens in areas with less rainfall.
Now, let's turn our attention to shade - loving blooms. Hostas are a popular choice for shady areas in the garden, but unfortunately, they are often a target for bunnies. However, ferns are a great alternative. Ferns have a delicate, lacy appearance that can add a soft and natural look to a shaded corner of your garden. Their texture and taste are unappetizing to bunnies. There are many types of ferns, such as the maidenhair fern and the ostrich fern. Ferns require moist, well - drained soil and partial to full shade, so they are well - suited for areas under trees or on the north side of buildings.
Heuchera, also known as coral bells, is another shade - loving plant that bunnies usually avoid. Heuchera comes in a wide range of colors, from deep purple to bright lime green. The foliage of heuchera is often the main attraction, with its unique shapes and patterns. The bitter taste of heuchera makes it an unpalatable option for bunnies. It can tolerate a bit of sun but prefers partial shade, making it a versatile addition to your garden.
When it comes to herbs, there are several that bunnies tend to stay away from. Rosemary is a fragrant herb that is commonly used in cooking. Its needle - like leaves and strong aroma are not appealing to bunnies. Rosemary needs full sun and well - drained soil, and it can be grown in containers or in the ground. Thyme is another herb that bunnies avoid. There are different varieties of thyme, including creeping thyme, which can be used as a ground cover. Thyme has a strong, earthy flavor that bunnies find unappealing.
Garlic and onions are also effective in keeping bunnies at bay. The strong smell of these allium plants is a natural deterrent for bunnies. You can plant garlic and onions around the perimeter of your garden or intersperse them among other plants. However, be careful when planting them near other plants, as they can have an allelopathic effect on some plants, which means they can release chemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants.
In addition to choosing the right plants, there are other strategies you can use to protect your garden from bunnies. Fencing is one of the most effective methods. A fence that is at least two feet high and buried a few inches into the ground can prevent bunnies from hopping into your garden. You can also use natural repellents, such as spraying a mixture of water and hot pepper sauce on your plants. The spicy taste will discourage bunnies from nibbling on them.
By incorporating bunny - resistant plants into your garden and using additional protective measures, you can create a beautiful and pest - free garden. Whether you're a beginner gardener or an experienced horticulturist, these tips can help you enjoy your garden without the worry of bunnies destroying your hard - work. So, go ahead and start planting these bunny - resistant plants, and watch your garden thrive.