The best way to protect vulnerable shrubs is to surround them with a physical barrier, such as a cylinder of chicken wire. Since rabbits can stand on their hind legs to reach tender twigs and succulent buds, the fencing needs to be at least 2 feet tall. “Taller is better, because rabbits can run and stand on top of snow,” Yiesla said. “In winters with very deep snowfall, even fencing won’t provide full protection.”
