How to Keep Rabbits off Tomato Plants

Rabbits are adorable creatures, but they can wreak havoc on your tomato plants. These animals have a voracious appetite and can quickly strip a tomato plant of its foliage, flowers, and fruits. To avoid losing your tomato harvest to these cute but destructive creatures, here are some tips on how to keep rabbits off tomato plants:

Fence your Garden

One of the most effective ways to keep rabbits away from your tomato plants is to enclose your garden with a fence. A simple fence made of chicken wire or hardware cloth will suffice. Make sure to bury the bottom of the fence at least six inches into the ground to prevent rabbits from burrowing under it. Also, ensure that the fence is at least two feet high to discourage rabbits from jumping over it. To further deter rabbits, add some branches or thorny plants around and inside the fence.

Use Repellents

Another way to keep rabbits away from your tomato plants is to use repellents. There are several options available, including sprays, granules, and even homemade remedies. Commercial repellents contain chemicals that emit a strong odor, taste, or sound that rabbits find unpleasant. You can also use natural repellents like garlic, pepper, or predator urine. Just make sure to reapply the repellent regularly, especially after raining, to maintain its effectiveness.

Plant Rabbit-resistant Varieties

If you live in an area with a high rabbit population, you may want to consider planting rabbit-resistant tomato varieties. Some varieties have tougher leaves, thicker stems, or a more bitter taste, which makes them less appealing to rabbits. Examples of rabbit-resistant tomato varieties include 'Celebrity,' 'Carolina Gold,' and 'Rutgers.' Just keep in mind that no tomato plant is entirely rabbit-proof, so you still need to take some measures to protect your plants.

Install Physical Barriers

If fencing is not an option, you can install physical barriers around your tomato plants to deter rabbits. Some methods include erecting chicken-wire cages around each plant, placing individual plant protectors made of PVC pipes or hardware cloth, or even covering the entire garden bed with plastic netting or row covers. Just make sure to secure the barriers tightly to avoid rabbits sneaking in from underneath or above.

Conclusion

Rabbits may be cute, but they can cause significant damage to your tomato plants if left unchecked. By following these tips on how to keep rabbits off tomato plants, you can protect your garden and enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest. Remember to choose the method that works best for your situation and to be consistent in applying it to keep those pesky bunnies away!