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Build fences at least 12 inches tall or rabbits will jump over them. Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images Rabbits are common pests in many parts of the United States. They have broad palates and will eat most types of leafy green vegetables, tomatoes, corn, peas and other plants meant for your table. Rabbits are agile, fast and good diggers. Fortunately there are a number of conventional and natural fence types that will keep them at bay.
Galvanized Wire
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Two-foot high galvanized wire fences are effective at protecting small gardens. Make sure you stake the bottom of the fence to the ground to prevent rabbits from squeezing underneath. If you have particularly determined rabbits, bury the fence 6 to 12 inches under ground to prevent them from tunneling into the garden.
Garlic Fence
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A liquid garlic fence is inexpensive and effective. It is also possible to make it at home. Garlic will repel many types of rabbits, according to GH Organics. Mix together minced garlic cloves with mineral oil and shake it up with water. Spray it around your garden, giving the plants a wide berth. If your rabbits are intrepid and brave the garlic fence, mix in some black pepper or cayenne pepper for a more potent repellent.
Ground Cover Fence
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There are some woody and prickly plants that rabbits will avoid hopping on. Plant these as ground cover around your garden for a natural and attractive rabbit-proof fence. Plants that work well include: prickly thrift, prickly dianthus, bugleweed, carpet bugle, lady's mantle and wooly yarrow, according to Colorado State University.
Electric Fence
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If more natural fences aren't doing the trick, you may want to consider an electric fence. Electric fences need only be single or double strands set up 6 to 12 inches above the ground. Electrify an existing chicken wire fence by stringing a single strand of electrified wire at the top. Electric fences are typically low-volt, and often require no more than a set of flashlight batteries, according to Yardener. They do not harm the rabbit, and effectively protect the garden.
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