Rabbits will eat a wide variety of plants, not just salad crops. They may also gnaw at the base of trees and shrubs causing severe damage throughout the year.
RABBIT CONTROL OPTIONS
There are usually several management options for solving any pest or disease problem. Use the non-pesticide approach whenever possible, saving pesticide use as the last line of defense. If a pest is identified at a damaging level, select a control targeted to the problem. This is called “Integrated Pest Management ”or “IPM ”.

If you have a rabbit problem, observe which plants they prefer and adjust your planting, if possible.

FENCES AND BARRIERS
The most effective way to discourage rabbits is to use fences and barriers:
For gardens: Fence rabbits out by using 1 inch wire mesh, standing 3 ’above ground. Dig a trench 6 ”deep and 6”wide -follow diagram on front side of tip sheet for underground placement of wire mesh. For unfenced flowers and other plants, use portable frames, constructed using 1 ”wire mesh.

For trees and shrubs: Use cylinder cages made of 1/4”wire mesh hardware cloth, at least 2 feet tall; mice can also cause injury -to prevent girdling, the cylinder should be sunk 2”-3” below the soil surface.

REPELLENTS
Common repellents, such as bloodmeal, fox urine, and others
are available. If you decide to use a repellent, carefully review the labeling and determine if it is appropriate to use on food crops. Read the “Precautionary Statements ” on the label and follow all instructions. Results with repellents vary, so monitor closely to determine product effectiveness.
         
       
 
READ THE LABEL BEFORE BUYING ANY PESTICIDE.
Re-read the label before using, storing or disposing of the pesticide — the label is the law. Following label instructions will help reduce risks to human health and the environment.
Sources of information:
Greg Patchan, Horticulture Agent, Oakland County MSU Extension.

Ellis and Bradley, Natural Insect and Disease Control, Rodale Press

Ellis Taylor ’s Weekend Gardening Guides:

Organic Pest & Disease Control, Houghton Mifflin

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Oakland County Garden Hotline:248/858-0902

National Pesticide Telecommunications Network (NPTN):1-800-858-7378
(Information about environmental and health effects of specific chemicals)

Household pesticide disposal: If you live in one of the SOCRRA communities, call for an appointment:248/288-5153
Download PDF of this Tip Sheet