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Summer is a favorite season for many people—especially those who love to garden. We’re about a month into the growing season, and whether you’re planting annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, or vegetables, one thing is certain: gardening takes a lot of work.
Now that everything is planted and growing, our focus shifts to a new challenge—keeping critters out of the garden.
Thanks to an exceptionally mild winter, rabbit populations are thriving this year. Unfortunately, rabbits love tender, green plants, which means they also love our gardens. Keeping them away can be a challenge.
If you’ve searched online for natural solutions, you’ve probably come across a variety of recommendations: sprinkling cayenne pepper around your garden, hanging bars of soap, placing hair-filled nylon stockings nearby, or even spreading fox urine.
Some home remedies—and even store-bought products—can be effective. You may find something that works for a while, only to discover that the rabbits eventually adapt and you need to try something new.
That’s exactly why I reached out to the experts at Cliff Avenue Greenhouse and Garden Center. Locally owned and serving the Sioux Empire since 1972, they have decades of experience helping gardeners tackle common challenges. I recently had the opportunity to visit with owner Heidi Teal.
Heidi explained that when it comes to flowers and perennials, gardeners have more options because these plants aren’t being grown for consumption. One solution she recommends is the use of systemic animal repellents. These products are placed in and around garden beds and contain ingredients that create an unpleasant taste for animals, helping to discourage feeding. Common ingredients include dried blood and cayenne pepper. Similar products are also available in spray form.
Vegetable gardens, however, require a different approach since we’re growing food that we intend to eat. In those cases, Heidi says fencing is often the most effective solution. Whether it’s wood, metal, or even plastic snow fencing, there are plenty of options available. You can purchase a ready-made solution or build one yourself to fit your space and budget.
Fencing is effective not only for rabbits but also for deer. If deer are a concern in your area, Heidi recommends a fence that stands at least five feet tall.
No matter what you’re growing—or what challenges you’re facing in your garden—I highly recommend stopping by Cliff Avenue Greenhouse and Garden Center and visiting with Heidi and her team. They’re always happy to share their expertise and help your garden thrive.
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