Rabbit-Resistant Hostas: Your Ultimate Guide

Are you tired of rabbits munching on your hostas? Do you want to enjoy the beauty of these plants without worrying about them being eaten by wildlife? Look no further than rabbit-resistant hostas! In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about these special varieties of hostas, including their characteristics, benefits, and how to care for them.

What are Rabbit-Resistant Hostas?

As the name suggests, rabbit-resistant hostas are hosta plant varieties that are less appealing to rabbits compared to other types of hostas. These varieties have leaves that are thicker or more textured, making them less palatable to rabbits. They also tend to have a bitter taste, which discourages rabbits from eating them.

Characteristics of Rabbit-Resistant Hostas

Rabbit-resistant hostas have several unique characteristics that set them apart from regular hostas. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Thicker leaves
• Textured leaves
• Bitter taste
• Less attractive to rabbits

Benefits of Rabbit-Resistant Hostas

Choosing rabbit-resistant hostas has many benefits, including:

• Reduced damage from rabbit feeding
• Less need for repellents or other control methods
• Lower maintenance requirements
• Better chance of hostas reaching full maturity

How to Care for Rabbit-Resistant Hostas

While rabbit-resistant hostas are less susceptible to damage from rabbits, they still require proper care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your rabbit-resistant hostas:

Planting and Location

Choose a location that provides partial shade, as too much sun can scorch the leaves of hostas. Make sure the soil is fertile and well-draining. Plant hostas in the spring or fall, making sure to space them at least 18 inches apart.

Watering

Hostas require consistent moisture, so make sure to water them regularly. Avoid watering them from above, as this can lead to fungal diseases. Instead, water them at the base using a soaker hose or drip irrigation system.

Fertilizing

Fertilize your hostas in the early spring using a slow-release fertilizer. You can also apply a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.

Pest Control

While rabbit-resistant hostas are less attractive to rabbits, they are still susceptible to other pests such as slugs and snails. Use organic pest control methods such as handpicking or using diatomaceous earth to keep these pests at bay.

Rabbit-Resistant Hosta Varieties

There are several varieties of rabbit-resistant hostas to choose from. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Halcyon

Halcyon is a blue-green hosta variety with thick leaves that are resistant to both rabbits and slugs. It grows up to 18 inches tall and 36 inches wide.

June

June is a variegated hosta variety with yellow-green leaves and blue-green edges. Its leaves are also thicker than other hostas, making it more resistant to rabbit feeding.

Sum and Substance

Sum and Substance is a large hosta variety that can grow up to 6 feet wide. Its leaves are thick and rubbery, making it less palatable to rabbits.

Rabbit-Resistant Hostas vs. Rabbit-Repellent Methods

While rabbit-resistant hostas are an effective way to reduce damage from rabbits, there are other methods you can use to keep these pests at bay. Here's how rabbit-resistant hostas stack up against some common rabbit-repellent methods:

Rabbit Fencing

Rabbit-resistant hostas are a more permanent solution than rabbit fencing, which requires regular maintenance and may not be effective in all situations.

Deer and Rabbit Repellents

While repellents can be effective, they require regular application and may have negative effects on the environment. Rabbit-resistant hostas are a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly option.


In choosing rabbit-resistant hostas is a smart choice for anyone looking to reduce damage from rabbits without using harmful pesticides or other control methods. By planting these varieties of hostas and providing proper care, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy plants for years to come.

FAQs

Q: Are rabbit-resistant hostas completely immune to rabbit feeding?

A: While rabbit-resistant hostas are less attractive to rabbits, they are not completely immune to feeding. However, they are much less likely to suffer significant damage from rabbit feeding compared to other hosta varieties.

Q: Can I plant regular hostas alongside rabbit-resistant hostas?

A: Yes, you can plant regular hostas alongside rabbit-resistant hostas. However, keep in mind that the regular hostas may still be susceptible to rabbit feeding.

Q: How do I know if my hostas are being eaten by rabbits?

A: Look for signs of damage such as ragged edges on the leaves or missing foliage. You may also see rabbit droppings near your plants.

Q: Can I use chemical pesticides to control rabbit feeding on my hostas?

A: While chemical pesticides can be effective, they can also harm beneficial insects and other wildlife. It's best to choose environmentally-friendly methods such as rabbit-resistant hostas or organic pest control methods.

Q: What other plants are resistant to rabbit feeding?

A: Other plants that are resistant to rabbit feeding include daffodils, alliums, and wildflowers such as coneflowers and black-eyed Susans.