What Plants Repel Rabbits and Deer: A Guide to Natural Deterrents

AvatarByArthur Cook General Blog (Plants)

What Plants Repel Rabbits and Deer?

Rabbits and deer can be a nuisance for gardeners, as they can quickly devour plants and flowers. If you’re looking for a natural way to keep these pests away from your yard, there are a number of plants that you can use.

In this article, we’ll discuss the best plants to repel rabbits and deer, as well as how to use them effectively. We’ll also provide some tips on how to deter these pests from your yard without using plants.

So if you’re tired of dealing with rabbits and deer, read on for all the information you need!

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Plant Repel Rabbits Repel Deer
Marigolds Yes Yes
Chrysanthemums Yes Yes
Garlic Yes Yes
Rosemary Yes No
Lavender No Yes

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Rabbits and deer can be a major nuisance for gardeners, as they can quickly eat through plants and flowers. If you’re struggling to keep these animals out of your garden, you may want to consider planting some plants that repel them.

There are a number of plants that have been shown to deter rabbits and deer, including:

  • Marigolds
  • Chrysanthemums
  • Lavender
  • Rosemary
  • Chives
  • Garlic
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Peppermint
  • Basil
  • Tansy

These plants contain chemicals that are either unpleasant to rabbits and deer, or that make them sick. By planting these plants around your garden, you can help to keep these animals away from your prized plants.

Plants That Repel Rabbits

The following is a list of plants that have been shown to repel rabbits:

  • Marigolds
  • Chrysanthemums
  • Lavender
  • Rosemary
  • Chives
  • Garlic
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Peppermint
  • Basil
  • Tansy

Marigolds

Marigolds are a popular choice for gardeners who want to repel rabbits. The flowers contain a chemical called pyrethrum, which is toxic to rabbits. When rabbits eat marigolds, they can experience vomiting, diarrhea, and other health problems.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are another good choice for deterring rabbits. The flowers contain a chemical called cinerin, which is also toxic to rabbits. When rabbits eat chrysanthemums, they can experience similar symptoms to those caused by marigolds.

Lavender

Lavender is a fragrant herb that is also effective at repelling rabbits. The scent of lavender is unpleasant to rabbits, and it can also irritate their eyes and noses.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a woody herb that is native to the Mediterranean region. The leaves of rosemary contain a chemical called camphor, which is toxic to rabbits. When rabbits eat rosemary, they can experience vomiting, diarrhea, and other health problems.

Chives

Chives are a member of the onion family, and they are also effective at repelling rabbits. The strong smell of chives is unpleasant to rabbits, and it can also irritate their eyes and noses.

Garlic

Garlic is another member of the onion family, and it is also toxic to rabbits. When rabbits eat garlic, they can experience vomiting, diarrhea, and other health problems.

Cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper is a hot pepper that is also effective at repelling rabbits. The capsaicin in cayenne pepper is irritating to rabbits’ skin and eyes.

Peppermint

Peppermint is a minty herb that is also effective at repelling rabbits. The strong smell of peppermint is unpleasant to rabbits, and it can also irritate their eyes and noses.

Basil

Basil is a fragrant herb that is also effective at repelling rabbits. The smell of basil is unpleasant to rabbits, and it can also irritate their eyes and noses.

Tansy

Tansy is a bitter herb that is also effective at repelling rabbits. The taste of tansy is unpleasant to rabbits, and it can also irritate their mouths.

How to Plant and Maintain These Plants

The following are some tips for planting and maintaining the plants that repel rabbits:

  • Choose the right location. Rabbits are attracted to areas that are close to food and water sources. When planting these plants, choose a location that is not in the direct path of a rabbit’s travel.
  • Plant the plants in a group. Rabbits are more likely to avoid plants that are planted in a group.
  • Mulch around the plants. Mulch can help to keep the soil moist and can also help to deter rabbits.
  • Water the plants regularly. Well-watered plants are healthier and more likely to repel rabbits.
  • Fertilize the plants regularly. Fertilized plants are healthier and more likely to repel rabbits.

Tips for Deterring Rabbits from Your Garden

In addition to planting plants that repel rabbits, there are a number of other things you can do to deter rabbits from your garden:

  • Install a fence. A fence is the most effective way to keep rabbits out of your garden. The fence should be at least 4 feet tall and should be made of a material

3. Natural Deer and Rabbit Repellents

There are a number of natural ways to deter deer and rabbits from your garden. These methods are non-toxic and safe for use around children and pets.

  • Plants: Some plants can deter deer and rabbits by emitting strong odors or flavors that they find unpleasant. These plants include:
  • Marigolds: Marigolds have a strong scent that deer and rabbits dislike. They also contain a chemical called pyrethrum, which is toxic to both animals.
  • Chrysanthemums: Chrysanthemums have a similar scent to marigolds and also contain pyrethrum.
  • Garlic: Garlic has a strong odor that deer and rabbits find unpleasant.
  • Chives: Chives have a strong onion-like smell that deer and rabbits dislike.
  • Rosemary: Rosemary has a strong, pungent scent that deer and rabbits dislike.
  • Lavender: Lavender has a sweet, floral scent that deer and rabbits find unpleasant.
  • Lemongrass: Lemongrass has a citrusy scent that deer and rabbits dislike.
  • Peppermint: Peppermint has a strong, minty scent that deer and rabbits dislike.
  • Basil: Basil has a strong, pungent scent that deer and rabbits dislike.
  • Spices: Some spices can also be used to deter deer and rabbits. These spices include:
  • Cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper is a hot pepper that deer and rabbits find unpleasant.
  • Black pepper: Black pepper has a strong, pungent flavor that deer and rabbits dislike.
  • Garlic powder: Garlic powder has a strong odor that deer and rabbits find unpleasant.
  • Onion powder: Onion powder has a strong, onion-like smell that deer and rabbits dislike.
  • Essential oils: Essential oils can also be used to deter deer and rabbits. These oils include:
  • Peppermint oil: Peppermint oil has a strong, minty scent that deer and rabbits dislike.
  • Eucalyptus oil: Eucalyptus oil has a strong, camphoraceous scent that deer and rabbits dislike.
  • Lemongrass oil: Lemongrass oil has a citrusy scent that deer and rabbits dislike.
  • Clove oil: Clove oil has a strong, spicy scent that deer and rabbits dislike.
  • Garlic oil: Garlic oil has a strong odor that deer and rabbits find unpleasant.
  • Onion oil: Onion oil has a strong, onion-like smell that deer and rabbits dislike.

How to Use These Repellents Effectively

To use these repellents effectively, you need to:

  • Plant them in areas where deer and rabbits are likely to feed. This includes areas near your garden, around your compost pile, and along your property lines.
  • Use multiple repellents in combination. This will help to create a stronger deterrent.
  • Reapply the repellents regularly, especially after it rains. The rain will wash away the repellents, so you need to reapply them to keep them effective.

Tips for Avoiding Potential Safety Hazards

When using natural repellents, it is important to take precautions to avoid potential safety hazards.

  • Keep all repellents out of reach of children and pets. Some repellents, such as cayenne pepper and black pepper, can be harmful if ingested.
  • Do not apply repellents directly to plants. This can damage the plants.
  • Wear gloves when applying repellents. This will help to protect your skin from the oils in the repellents.

4. Using a Combination of Methods

The best way to deter deer and rabbits from your garden is to use a combination of methods. This will help to create a stronger deterrent and make it more difficult for deer and rabbits to get into your garden.

Some of the most effective methods for deterring deer and rabbits include:

  • Fencing: A physical barrier, such as a fence, is the most effective way to keep deer and rabbits out of your garden. Make sure the fence is tall enough (at least 8 feet) and sturdy enough to withstand deer and rabbits trying to push it over.
  • Planting repellent plants: Planting repellent plants around your garden can help to deter deer and rabbits from entering. Some of the best repellent plants include marigolds, chrysanthemums, garlic, chives, rosemary, lavender, lemongrass, peppermint, basil, and cayenne pepper.
  • Using repellent sprays: Repellent sprays can be

    What plants repel rabbits and deer?

  • Allium: Allium plants, such as garlic, onions, and chives, contain a compound called allicin that is toxic to rabbits and deer.
  • Chrysanthemums: Chrysanthemums produce a chemical called pyrethrum that is toxic to rabbits and deer.
  • Marigolds: Marigolds contain a chemical called thiophene that is toxic to rabbits and deer.
  • Rosemary: Rosemary contains a chemical called camphor that is toxic to rabbits and deer.
  • Rue: Rue contains a chemical called thujone that is toxic to rabbits and deer.

How do I plant these plants to repel rabbits and deer?

  • Plant the plants in areas where rabbits and deer are likely to frequent, such as near gardens, yards, and vegetable patches.
  • Plant the plants in dense clusters so that rabbits and deer cannot easily eat them.
  • Water the plants regularly to keep them healthy and thriving.

How long will these plants repel rabbits and deer?

The effects of these plants on rabbits and deer can last for several weeks or months. However, the effectiveness of the plants may decrease over time as the plants grow older and the rabbits and deer become accustomed to the smell.

Are there any other plants that repel rabbits and deer?

There are a number of other plants that repel rabbits and deer, including:

  • Foxglove: Foxglove contains a chemical called digitalis that is toxic to rabbits and deer.
  • Lavender: Lavender contains a chemical called linalool that is toxic to rabbits and deer.
  • Tansy: Tansy contains a chemical called thujone that is toxic to rabbits and deer.
  • Yarrow: Yarrow contains a chemical called achilleine that is toxic to rabbits and deer.

What should I do if rabbits and deer are still eating my plants?

If rabbits and deer are still eating your plants, you can try the following:

  • Install a fence around your garden or yard.
  • Use repellents, such as commercial products or homemade solutions, to deter rabbits and deer.
  • Trap and release rabbits and deer.
  • Contact your local animal control agency for assistance.

there are a variety of plants that can be used to repel rabbits and deer. Some of the most effective plants include daffodils, marigolds, mint, rosemary, and lavender. These plants contain chemicals that are either toxic to rabbits and deer or that simply make them avoid the area. By planting these plants around your property, you can help to keep rabbits and deer away from your garden and landscaping.

In addition to using plants to repel rabbits and deer, there are a number of other steps you can take to protect your property. These include installing fencing, using repellents, and removing food sources. By taking these steps, you can help to keep your property safe from these destructive pests.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

  • Rabbits and deer can be a nuisance to homeowners, as they can damage gardens and landscaping.
  • There are a variety of plants that can be used to repel rabbits and deer.
  • Some of the most effective plants include daffodils, marigolds, mint, rosemary, and lavender.
  • These plants contain chemicals that are either toxic to rabbits and deer or that simply make them avoid the area.
  • In addition to using plants to repel rabbits and deer, there are a number of other steps you can take to protect your property.
  • These include installing fencing, using repellents, and removing food sources.

By taking these steps, you can help to keep your property safe from these destructive pests.

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.