living fences to keep out critters

[wren]

I have a new, and rather small yard to garden in this year. Between this fact, and that I have another element thrown into the mix that I never worried about before: rabbits, I'm looking at trying to maximize space and keep out critters by *growing* a natural fence. I wondered about planting onions or herbs or somthing like that around the perimeter of the vegetable garden to hopefully deter rabbits.

Anyone do this? Any ideas for what kinds of plants might help?

wren

[Chanley]

They say peppers.

My dh used to plant a patch of parsnips away from the garden for the rabbits. If they can get parsnips they wont want your other stuff. I liek the idea of doign this. Kind of an offering to mamma nature.

However, if you have deer that could be a problem as they can walk over whatever and get what they want.

where do you live?

[wren]

I live in Minneapolis, MN. Deer aren't a problem (that I know of) so close to the city, but that remains to be seen I guess. I like the idea of a separate patch of parsnips for the rabbits. Never thought to do that. I'm happy to share...

wren

[robynberkley]

Some animals don't like the taste of marigolds...if you plant them on the perimeter, it deters than from going further into the garden. Don't know how it works but that is what my MIL has always done with her garden.

Cheers...Robyn