Do Bunnies Eat Tomato Plants?

Tomato plants are a favorite in gardens around the world. They offer a delicious bounty of bright red fruit that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, gardeners often worry about the other animals who might enjoy their precious plants – specifically, bunnies. Do bunnies eat tomato plants? Let's find out.

What Do Bunnies Eat?

To determine if bunnies eat tomato plants, it's important to first understand what they typically eat. In the wild, rabbits primarily eat grass, clovers, and other vegetation. They also eat stems, leaves, and bark from a variety of trees and bushes.

In addition to plants, bunnies may also eat fruits and vegetables when given the opportunity. They have a sweet tooth and enjoy sugary treats like apples and carrots. However, it's important to remember that rabbits have sensitive digestive systems that can be upset by too much sugar or rich foods.

Do Bunnies Eat Tomato Plants?

So, do bunnies eat tomato plants? Unfortunately for gardeners, the answer is yes. Bunnies are known to munch on young tomato plants, especially when other food sources are scarce.

The leaves and stems of a tomato plant are both fair game for a hungry bunny. They have a particular appetite for the tender shoots at the top of the plant. If left unchecked, a colony of bunnies can quickly decimate a tomato crop.

How to Protect Your Tomato Plants From Bunnies

To keep your tomatoes safe from bunnies, you have a few options. One is to put up a physical barrier around your garden. You can use chicken wire or other fencing to keep rabbits out. Be sure to bury the fence at least a foot deep to prevent bunnies from digging underneath it.

Another option is to use natural deterrents, such as predator urine or spicy substances. Sprinkling red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper around the base of your tomato plants can help discourage bunnies from eating them. Just be sure to reapply the spice after rain or watering.

If you have a pet dog, you may also want to let them roam around your garden from time to time. The scent of a predator can be enough to keep bunnies at bay.

Conclusion

In conclusion, bunnies do eat tomato plants. However, with the right precautions, you can protect your garden and enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest. Knowing what bunnies typically eat and using natural deterrents or physical barriers can help keep your tomato plants safe and healthy.