Barbara Ray answers this question from August 2019
Hosta are completely edible. There are some good recipes for hosta but most of us don’t eat them, we enjoy their beauty in our garden!
Rabbit populations seem to be high this year. The extensive rain and storms have reduced the success of predator nests and dens and so there is less pressure on rabbits.
Years with more rabbits means more of them seeking out good foraging in competition. About the only way to deter them at this point is to put garden fencing around important plants or sections of garden.
The stores sell a nice green mesh fencing that is about 24” tall. You can step over it and it is almost invisible.
Usually the fencing needs to be up for 8-10 weeks to really deter them by convincing them that is not an available food.
Some residents swear by coyote urine sprayed around the garden and plants. Most sporting goods sections sell the predator scent.
Another deterrent can be to take 24” chicken wire and cut sections to lay flat on the ground around the edge of the garden. They don’t like stepping on it since it moves and feels dangerous. This is more work for us because we have to remember to pick it up to mow grass, but might be worth a try if other methods aren’t stopping them.
Head here for more information on rabbits: https://dublinohiousa.gov/nature/rabbits/
Head here for more landscaping tips to attract or deter wildlife: https://dublinohiousa.gov/living/landscaping-for-wildlife/
