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Portulaca Mystery: Overnight Disappearance Points to Rabbits

Your gallon portulaca, stripped to 2-inch stubs overnight with no debris? Classic rabbit damage.

Why Rabbits Love Portulaca

Portulaca (Portulaca oleracea, purslane) is a culinary delicacy—tender, succulent, nutritious. Rabbits seek it out when vegetables are scarce. The clean cuts, lack of debris, and selective targeting (ignoring other plants) all point to Peter Rabbit.

Solutions

Physical barrier: Chicken wire cylinder around the pot (18 inches tall)
Repellents: Garlic spray, commercial products (reapply after rain)
Get a cat: The ultimate rabbit deterrent
Elevate pots: On tables or hanging brackets rabbits can't reach

Edible Bonus

If rabbits don't get it first, you can eat portulaca—add to salads with tomatoes and croutons. It's a gourmet green hiding in plain sight.

Protect the next one, and enjoy the flowers (or the salad).

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