Plants That Repel Rabbits And Squirrels: Keep Your Garden Safe

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Are you tired of dealing with rabbits and squirrels that keep munching your beautiful plants in the garden? Don't worry; there is a natural solution to this problem. In this article, we will explore some of the best plants that repel rabbits and squirrels.

Rabbits and squirrels can be very frustrating for the gardening enthusiasts who spend so much time, effort, and money in maintaining their gardens. Fortunately, there are many ways to deter these pesky animals. Using plants that repel them is an effective and eco-friendly way of keeping them away from your garden.

Marigolds

Marigolds have a strong scent that most small animals dislike, making them an excellent natural repellent. Besides, marigolds' blooms add a pop of color to the garden, making them both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

Lavender

Lavender has a fragrant smell, which makes it useful to keep rabbits and squirrels at bay. The flowers of lavender attract bees, butterflies, and other essential pollinators that are beneficial to your garden.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a herb that rabbits and squirrels tend to avoid due to its strong aroma. Besides repelling pests, rosemary is a useful culinary herb; hence planting them also serves dual purposes.

How To Use Plants To Repel Rabbits And Squirrels

Now that we have looked at some of the best plants for repelling rabbits and squirrels let's examine how to use these plants to protect our garden.

Plant in borders or pots around your garden

One of the simplest ways to use these plants is by planting them around the edges of your garden. Pots with these plants can also provide versatile solutions if you want them to move around the area as needed. This creates a barrier with enough strength to dissuade rabbits or squirrels from straying into your garden.

Use as companion planting with vegetables and fruits

Pairing vegetable plants, herbs, or fruits that rabbits and squirrels are not keen on eating is another option. This method of companion planting ensures that the rabbits and squirrels will generally steer clear of the plants that they prefer less, thinking of them as deterrents rather than sources of food.

Dry and hang plant matter to create a barrier

When these plants are sufficiently dried, you may hang these to create a barrier around your garden, surrounding your growing vegetables and fruits. Drying the plant material allows the aromatic oils to accumulate, increasing its efficacy. You may create mini bunches from the spines of the plant stem, tie it down at the base, and hang them around fruit trees and other vulnerable locations.

Herbs That Keep Rabbits And Squirrels Away

Besides marigolds, lavender, and rosemary, here are a few more herbs that are effective repellents:

Mint

Mint possesses antifungal and antibacterial properties that help keep the rodents away from your garden. Its pungent smell keeps rabbit from even thinking about coming near your mint plants.

Thyme

Thyme is another herb that repels rabbits and squirrels with its strong fragrance. Besides its repellent properties, thyme is also a herb used for seasoning delectable dishes.

Dill

Dill has a unique scent that repels rabbits and squirrels effectively. It's good to note that rodents can damage dill plants during their first growth stages but afterward, the plants mature and become an efficient deterrent.

Perennial Plants That Repel Rabbits And Squirrels

Here are perennial plants that release a fragrance that keeps rabbits and squirrels from devouring your plants:

Bee Balm

Bee balm belongs to the mint family and emits a pungent scent that repels rabbits and squirrels. The plant blossoms between August and September, making your garden an attractive place to butterflies and hummingbirds — a treat for any gardening enthusiast.

Geraniums

Geraniums are colorful and efficient repellents for rabbits and squirrels. They have a potent smell -a mix of rose and lemon- that rodents don't find appealing.

Yarrow

Yarrow also repels rabbits, deer, and squirrels. With consistent care and ample sun, you can obtain vigorous yarrow plants, an elegant addition to your garden.

Using plants that repel rabbits and squirrels in your garden offers an environmentally friendly and safe solution to keep these pests out. By strategically placing and using these plants, you'll be able to maintain your garden without any harmful chemical products.

FAQ

What are some other natural ways to keep rabbits and squirrels away from my garden?

Other natural ways to keep these animals at bay include putting up barriers such as fences made of chicken wire, aluminum, or plastic. Using predator urine, such as fox or coyote urine, scaring devices, and pet dogs or cats could also work.

Are there any plants that attract rabbits and squirrels?

Yes, several plants are irresistible to rabbits and squirrels like lettuce, carrots, beans, strawberries, basil, squash, and peas, among others.

How often do I need to replace the plants that repel rabbits and squirrels?

Perennial plants should last several years when planted correctly and maintained in top condition. However, yearly replacement of certain annuals, particularly those that rely heavily on regular pruning or manipulation, may benefit their growth and effectiveness.

Can I grow these plants indoors to repel rodents inside my home?

Although not practical, a couple of these plants will repel rodents indoors, including peppermint and lavender. Peppermint oil, cotton balls soaked with peppermint extracts, and lavender plants can all serve as pest deterrents.

Are there any plants that are dangerous for rabbits and squirrels to eat?

Yes, some plants, including hydrangeas, oleander, azalea, rhododendron, and lily bulbs, are toxic to both rabbits and squirrels.

Where can I find these plants to purchase?

You can find these plants in your local nursery, farmer market, and online stores such as Amazon, Burpee, Growjoy, and Park Seed, among others.

Do the scents of these plants have any effect on human beings?

Most people find these scents pleasant, and neither the plants nor the essential oils made from them cause any significant health risk or harm.

Is it safe to consume herbs that repel rabbits and squirrels?

The consumption of these herbs is safe as a flavoring or infusion. Additionally, the plants are non-toxic and pose no harm unless consumed in large quantities or allergic to some varieties.

Can I use essential oils and sprays made from these plants to repel rabbits and squirrels?

Yes, you can create a DIY repellent spray made from essential oils diluted in water, vinegar, or alcohol.

Can I still have a vegetable garden if I'm using these plants to keep rabbits and squirrels away?

Yes, you can still have a vegetable garden if you're using these plants to repel rabbits and squirrels. Companion planting, using scare tactics, and physical barriers are excellent ways to reap your harvest without intrusions.

Using plants that repel rabbits and squirrels can be an exciting and healthy addition to any garden. With detailed planning, maintenance, and clever use of these plants, you will undoubtedly protect your precious garden against unexpected, pernicious rodent visitors.