How To Keep Rabbits From Eating Arborvitae

Keeping rabbits from eating arborvitae starts with understanding their habits and using practical barriers.
 
If rabbits are munching on your arborvitae, you need to act fast before they damage the plants beyond repair.
 
In this post, we’ll explore how to keep rabbits from eating arborvitae using fencing, repellents, and simple yard adjustments.
 
These methods are proven to stop rabbits from eating arborvitae, so your evergreens stay lush and healthy.
 
Let’s dive into the best ways to keep rabbits away from arborvitae for good.
 

How to Keep Rabbits from Eating Arborvitae with Physical Barriers

The most reliable way to keep rabbits from eating arborvitae is to block their access entirely.
 
Physical barriers work because they physically prevent rabbits from reaching the tender branches.
 
Here are the top barrier methods to protect arborvitae from rabbits.
 

Install a Rabbit-Proof Fence

A fence is the gold standard for keeping rabbits from eating arborvitae.
 
Use chicken wire or hardware cloth with mesh no larger than one inch.
 
Bury the bottom six inches underground to stop rabbits from digging underneath.
 
Make the fence at least two feet tall so rabbits can’t jump over it.
 
This method keeps rabbits from eating arborvitae by creating a physical wall they can’t get past.
 

Use Tree Guards or Cylinders

For individual arborvitae, wrap the trunk and lower branches with a protective cylinder.
 
Galvanised metal or plastic tree guards work well to stop rabbits from eating arborvitae bark.
 
Secure the guard loosely so it doesn’t harm the plant as it grows.
 
Check guards each season to ensure they remain effective at keeping rabbits from eating arborvitae.
 

Netting for Young Plants

Young arborvitae are especially vulnerable to rabbit damage.
 
Drape bird netting or garden mesh over the entire plant.
 
Tie the netting at the base to prevent rabbits from pushing it aside.
 
This lightweight barrier is a quick way to keep rabbits from eating arborvitae seedlings.
 

Natural Ways to Stop Rabbits from Eating Arborvitae

If you prefer chemical-free options, natural deterrents can help keep rabbits from eating arborvitae.
 
These methods rely on smells and plant choices that rabbits dislike.
 

Plant Rabbit-Resistant Companions

Surround your arborvitae with plants that rabbits naturally avoid.
 
Lavender, sage, rosemary, and marigolds are excellent choices.
 
Strongly scented herbs often discourage rabbits from getting close to your arborvitae.
 
This strategy creates a living barrier that helps keep rabbits from eating arborvitae.
 

Use Scent-Based Deterrents

Rabbits rely heavily on their sense of smell.
 
Sprinkle cayenne pepper, garlic powder, or dried blood meal around your arborvitae.
 
Reapply after rain or heavy dew to maintain effectiveness.
 
These strong odors can stop rabbits from eating arborvitae without harming the plants.
 

Encourage Natural Predators

Letting predators into your yard can naturally reduce rabbit populations.
 
Install a birdhouse for owls or a perch for hawks.
 
If you have a dog, let it patrol the yard near your arborvitae.
 
Just the presence of a predator often keeps rabbits from eating arborvitae in the first place.
 

Long-Term Strategies to Protect Arborvitae from Rabbits

Consistency is key when figuring out how to keep rabbits from eating arborvitae permanently.
 
Rabbits are persistent, so you need ongoing effort to stop rabbits from eating arborvitae.
 

Remove Hiding Spots and Food Sources

Rabbits love dense brush, woodpiles, and tall grass.
 
Clear these areas near your arborvitae to reduce rabbit activity.
 
Keep your lawn mowed and trim low branches that rabbits could hide under.
 
When rabbits feel exposed, they are less likely to target your arborvitae.
 

Apply Repellents on a Schedule

Commercial or homemade repellents work best when applied regularly.
 
Spray the repellent directly on the arborvitae foliage if the label allows.
 
Rotate between different repellent types so rabbits don’t get used to one smell.
 
Reapply every two to four weeks during peak rabbit activity seasons.
 
This routine helps keep rabbits from eating arborvitae all year round.
 

Consider Professional Exclusion

If rabbits keep damaging your arborvitae despite your efforts, call a wildlife professional.
 
They can install permanent exclusion systems like buried fencing or electric netting.
 
A pro can also identify weak spots in your current setup for keeping rabbits from eating arborvitae.
 
Sometimes expert help is the best way to finally stop rabbits from eating arborvitae.
 

So, How to Keep Rabbits from Eating Arborvitae?

Keeping rabbits from eating arborvitae requires a mix of physical barriers, natural deterrents, and consistent maintenance.
 
Start with a fence or tree guard as your main line of defense to keep rabbits from eating arborvitae.
 
Add scent repellents and habitat changes to make your yard less inviting to rabbits.
 
Monitor your arborvitae regularly and reapply barriers or repellents as needed.
 
With these steps, you can successfully keep rabbits from eating arborvitae and enjoy your evergreens for years.