The presence of rabbits in a garden often leads to the question of herb protection, as these animals are known to graze widely on tender vegetation. The short answer is that rabbits do consume a wide variety of herbs, often viewing a garden as a readily available food source. Their feeding choices are not random, however, and they tend to select plants based on texture, moisture content, and the presence of strong aromatic oils. Understanding this selective feeding behavior is the first step in protecting your herbal plantings from unwelcome visitors.
Highly Preferred Herbs Rabbits Target
Rabbits frequently seek out herbs that offer soft foliage, high moisture, and a less intense flavor profile. Herbs lacking the defense mechanism of potent essential oils are particularly susceptible to being eaten down to the stem.
Some of the most popular targets include Parsley and Cilantro, which are rich in vitamins and have a texture rabbits find appealing. Dill is another herb that rabbits favor for its light, aromatic quality and soft, feathery leaves. They are also drawn to Basil, especially young plants, which offer a smooth, succulent leaf texture before the plant’s oils fully mature. Marjoram is also frequently targeted due to its milder flavor and soft leaves.
Unpalatable Herbs Rabbits Avoid
Rabbits actively avoid many herbs that possess strong natural defenses, typically intense essential oils, pungent aromas, or tough, fuzzy textures. These compounds, often concentrated in the leaves, act as a chemical deterrent.
Rosemary and Lavender are prime examples; both contain high concentrations of oils that emit a strong, pine-like fragrance and bitter taste. Sage and Thyme are avoided because of their fuzzy leaf texture and robust, earthy flavors.
Oregano’s strong scent and flavor profile, derived from compounds like carvacrol and thymol, make it a less attractive meal option for grazing rabbits. Members of the Allium family, such as Chives and Garlic, are also unpalatable due to the sulfurous compounds that create their characteristic, strong odor.
Physical and Behavioral Deterrents
Protecting herbs from rabbits requires a multi-faceted approach involving both physical exclusion and the use of sensory deterrents.
Physical Barriers
Physical barriers are the most reliable method for ensuring that rabbits cannot access vulnerable plants. A fence constructed from chicken wire or hardware cloth should have a mesh size of one inch or smaller to prevent entry. This barrier must be secured, ideally reaching a minimum height of 24 to 30 inches above the soil line. Rabbits are known to burrow, so the fencing material should extend at least six inches beneath the ground and be bent outward in an “L” shape to prevent tunneling into the protected area.
Behavioral Deterrents
Behavioral deterrents offer a secondary line of defense by making the garden environment undesirable. Commercial repellents often use ingredients like dried blood meal or predator urine to activate the rabbit’s innate fear response. Motion-activated sprinklers provide a startle effect, surprising the animal with an unexpected burst of water and discouraging repeat visits. For plants nearing harvest, taste-based repellents, such as sprays containing hot pepper or garlic, can be applied to make the foliage unappetizing.