## Vegetables That Rabbits Will Not Eat
Rabbits are notorious for their voracious appetites and their ability to devour entire gardens overnight. While they enjoy a wide range of plants, there are certain vegetables that rabbits typically avoid. Understanding these vegetables can help gardeners protect their crops and keep their bunnies healthy.
Unpalatable Vegetables
1. Allium Vegetables:
Onions
Garlic
Leeks
Chives
Scallions
These vegetables contain sulfur compounds that give them a pungent odor and taste, which rabbits find unappealing.
2. Brassicas:
Cabbage
Brussels sprouts
Kale
Collard greens
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Brassicas produce bitter glucosinolates that deter rabbits. However, young brassica seedlings are more susceptible to damage.
3. Herbs:
Rosemary
Thyme
Sage
Lavender
Mint
Many herbs contain strong scents or flavors that rabbits dislike. Rosemary, in particular, is known for its repellent properties.
4. Peppers:
Hot peppers (e.g., cayenne, habanero)
Sweet peppers
The capsaicin in hot peppers is an irritant that deter rabbits. Sweet peppers, while less pungent, may still be avoided due to their strong aroma.
5. Root Vegetables:
Turnips
Rutabagas
Radishes
Beets
Root vegetables often have a bitter taste or a tough texture that rabbits find unappealing.
6. Tomatoes:
Tomatoes contain tomatine, a toxic alkaloid that can make rabbits sick. They may also dislike the tomato’s acidity.
7. Asparagus:
Asparagus is tough and fibrous, making it difficult for rabbits to chew and digest. It also has a slightly bitter taste.
8. Sweet Potatoes:
Sweet potatoes have a high sugar content and a tough skin that rabbits may find unpalatable.
9. Green Beans:
Green beans contain a compound called saponin, which can be toxic to rabbits in large amounts.
10. Peas:
Peas have a high starch content and can be difficult for rabbits to digest, causing gas and bloating.
11. Artichokes:
Artichokes have a bitter taste and a tough texture that rabbits avoid.
12. Eggplant:
Eggplant contains solanine, an alkaloid that can be toxic to rabbits in large amounts.
Less Preferred Vegetables
While the above vegetables are typically avoided by rabbits, there are some vegetables that rabbits may consume in small amounts but are not preferred. These vegetables include:
Carrots: Rabbits prefer dark leafy greens over carrots, but they may occasionally nibble on the tops of carrot plants.
Celery: Celery has a high water content and a low nutritional value, so rabbits may not find it very satisfying.
Spinach: Spinach contains oxalates, which can be harmful to rabbits in large amounts.
Lettuce: While rabbits may enjoy the taste of lettuce, it is a low-nutrient vegetable that does not provide substantial sustenance.
Tips for Preventing Rabbit Damage
Choose unpalatable vegetables: Plant vegetables that rabbits are less likely to eat.
Protect vulnerable plants: Surround vulnerable plants with fencing or barriers to deter rabbits.
Use repellents: Apply natural repellents, such as coyote urine or peppermint oil, around your garden.
Plant decoy crops: Plant fast-growing vegetables, such as marigolds or zinnias, to distract rabbits from your main crops.
Maintain a clean garden: Remove fallen fruits, vegetables, and weeds that rabbits may find attractive.
By understanding the vegetables that rabbits typically avoid, and implementing these protective measures, gardeners can minimize rabbit damage and protect their valuable crops.