What Can I Plant for Rabbits in a Food Plot?

Hay

• Hay is the one food all rabbits need an unlimited supply of and well worth growing, especially if you have a large space. Purchase the seeds for a specific type of hay grass, such as timothy or oat, that is suitable for rabbits, rather than a hay meadow seed mix. If you have young rabbits, or elderly rabbits on a special diet, try alfalfa hay, although adult rabbits should not get much of it. Dry only the grass you need to store. Fresh grass is just as good for rabbits as hay.

Root Vegetables

• Some root vegetables are suitable for rabbits. The advantage of homegrown ones is you can feed your pets the tops, which are usually edible, as well as the roots. Turnips, carrots and parsnips are good choices. Don't grow too many, unless you plan to eat a lot yourself. In excess, most root vegetables can cause digestive problems in rabbits. Obviously, root vegetables that are toxic to rabbits, such as potatoes and onions, should be grown only for your own use.

Fruit Trees

• While fruit should be only an occasional treat for rabbits, they also require an abundant supply of non-toxic twigs to gnaw. Growing an apple tree or small berry bush provides treats for your rabbit, fresh fruit for you, and enough safe chews to keep your rabbits' teeth in good condition. The smallest varieties of fruit trees and shrubs require no more than a few square feet of soil.

Leafy Greens

• Rabbits need a good supply of various green leaf vegetables and herbs. Dark varieties of lettuce (not iceberg), spinach, mustard greens, dill and fennel grow fast and you can start harvesting after a few weeks. Sow batches of seeds at different times so you get a constant supply. Dandelions normally thrive whether you want them or not, but if you keep rabbits they are a weed you may wish to encourage. Dandelions are high in nutrients, and rabbits love the leaves and flowers.