I received a rosebush for Mother’s Day. The roses are long-stemmed “rainbow sorbet,” which is a golden color tinged with deep, pink tips. They are very full roses with a delicate fragrance and I love them. My rosebush has been doing very well since almost immediately after we planted it.
I’ve had several roses bloom at different intervals. I noticed that there hadn’t been any for a while and assumed my rosebush might be done for the season. Then, I noted new buds once again. As I was looking at them, I noticed chewed up ones. I don’t know why I didn’t notice before. I had thought they were just shriveled from the heat, but they were chewed up! I didn’t know at the time what had eaten them, but as my new rosebuds began to bloom, I decided I would cut them and bring them inside.
I told my youngest daughter my plan and she thought it was a good idea. Later, I walked outside and all of my roses were gone but one. There was a fat rabbit near the rosebush, happily chewing away and surrounded by rose petals.
I quickly cut my lone rose and brought it inside. I was surprised how long it lasted, and I was glad to enjoy at least one rose. I’m guessing I didn’t enjoy my single stem as much as the rabbits enjoyed the rest of them!
I picked up a short length of pre-made fencing about 18” high and placed it around my rosebush. I hope it’s going to the trick, since some of the alternative measures that have been suggested by some don’t seem very pleasant for the rabbits. I may end up adding some fine chicken wire inside the fencing if necessary. I had no idea this would be an issue.
Who knew rabbits would work past the thorns to eat roses when there’s so much other stuff around? My little one said they must have thought the name rainbow sorbet meant ice cream.
Yard and Garden: Rabbit Control Tips