Chrysanthemums, mums or chrysanths refer to flowering plants that belong to genus Chrysanthemum under the family Asteraceae. They are one of the most attractive perennials featuring mainly white, yellow or red florets.
Native to northeastern Europe and Asia, chrysanths have many uses including being an ornamental plant, in culinary (some cultivars flowers are used to make tea) and some are used as a natural insecticide (have pyrethrins).
Furthermore, studies have shown that they can be used to reduce air pollution inside houses (when kept indoors).
Will rabbits eat mums?
No. Mums are some of the rabbit and deer resistant plants owning their fuzzy texture and the strong fragrant of their leaves. Furthermore, some varieties of these plants have leaves and stems that are poisonous to rabbits.[1]
However, simply because they are poisonous or have a strong scent does not mean that bunnies cannot nibble them completely. These animals often nibble almost anything they come across.
Therefore, they are likely to munch their tender flowers, something you may not like to happen to these lovely ornamental plants.
Prevention
If bunnies are eating your chrysanthemums, there various ways to keep them away. Some of the common ways to stop rabbits from eating your mums include:
- Fencing – Ensure the fence is at least 3 feet high and bury it about 10-12 feet deep since bunnies are good diggers. Also, ensure you use a chicken wire mesh that is less than an inch in size. YardGard will do the job well.
- Go for the various homemade and commercial repellents
- Since they are often grown in containers, set them high on your balconies, deck rails, or tables where bunnies cannot reach.
There are other methods including trapping, use of scares, and so on. Ensure the method you used does not harm your bunnies or any other pets you may be having.
Conclusion
Mums are some of the least favored flowers by bunnies. They do not like them and some varieties may be poisonous. Avoid giving them these ornamental plants and find ways to limit access.