What Stops Rabbits from Digging Up Potted Plants?

Rabbits can be notorious for digging up potted plants, causing damage to the roots of the plants and ruining the appearance of the container. If you're a gardener who loves to keep plants in containers around your home, you'll want to know what stops rabbits from digging up potted plants. In this article, we'll explore some of the ways you can keep these furry creatures at bay.

Use Physical Barriers

One of the most effective ways to keep rabbits from digging up potted plants is to use physical barriers. This involves placing a barrier around the pot to prevent rabbits from gaining access to the soil. You can use chicken wire or hardware cloth to create a small circular barrier around the pot. Make sure to bury the wire mesh several inches below the surface of the soil, and be sure to secure it firmly in place.

Apply Repellents

Another way to deter rabbits from digging up potted plants is to use repellents. There are a variety of repellents available on the market that are designed to keep rabbits away from your plants. Some of these repellents contain a strong scent that rabbits find unpleasant, while others are designed to make the plant tastes unappealing.

One popular type of repellent is the use of predator urine. Rabbits are naturally wary of predators such as foxes and coyotes, so the scent of their urine can be an effective deterrent. You can purchase predator urine from most garden centers, or you can collect it yourself if you live near areas where these animals are present.

Use Companion Planting Strategies

Companion planting is a gardening technique where you plant certain plants next to each other to help them thrive. Some plants have natural properties that repel rabbits or animals that might otherwise be attracted to your plants. For example, marigolds are known to have a strong scent that rabbits find unpleasant. You can plant marigolds around the base of your potted plants to repel rabbits and help your other plants thrive.

Remove Attractants

Rabbits are attracted to certain types of plants, so removing those plants from your garden or keeping them out of reach can help discourage rabbits from digging up your potted plants. Some common plants that attract rabbits include lettuce, peas, and beans. If you're experiencing a rabbit problem, consider removing these plants from your garden or keeping them in a raised planter.

Conclusion

Rabbits can be a nuisance for gardeners, especially if you love to keep plants in containers around your home. Luckily, there are several ways to keep rabbits from digging up potted plants. Physical barriers, repellents, companion planting, and removing attractants can all be effective ways to keep your garden looking its best. Try out a combination of these methods to see what works best for your garden.