When I first adopted Daisy, my fluffy little rabbit, I quickly learned that her appetite was insatiable. She could devour an impressive pile of greens in minutes, leaving me scrambling to restock her supply. That’s when I realized the key to keeping both her belly and my wallet happy: growing my own rabbit-friendly plants.
As a new gardener, I wanted to focus on fast-growing plants that could keep up with Daisy’s needs. Over time, I discovered a variety of herbs, greens, and vegetables that not only grew quickly but also provided essential nutrients for her diet. It turned out to be one of the most rewarding decisions I ever made as a rabbit owner—not just for
Daisy, but for me too. There was something special about harvesting fresh greens from the garden and watching her twitch her nose in delight as I placed them in her bowl.
If you’re looking to grow your own rabbit-friendly garden, this guide will walk you through 10 fast-growing plants that rabbits can eat. Each plant is easy to cultivate and packed with benefits for your furry friend.
1. Lettuce (Romaine and Leaf Varieties)
Lettuce was one of the first plants I tried growing for Daisy, and it was a game-changer. Romaine lettuce and loose-leaf varieties like red leaf or butterhead grow quickly, often maturing in just 30–40 days. Unlike iceberg lettuce, which is low in nutrients and too watery for rabbits, these varieties are rich in vitamins like A and K.
Daisy loved nibbling on the soft, tender leaves, and I loved how easy it was to grow. I planted seeds in rows, watered them regularly, and within a few weeks, I had a continuous supply of fresh greens. Since lettuce is a cut-and-come-again crop, I could harvest leaves as needed without uprooting the plant, keeping Daisy’s bowl filled for weeks at a time.
2. Kale
Kale grows like a champion. In my experience, it was one of the hardiest and fastest-growing plants in the garden. Most varieties, like curly kale or lacinato (also known as dinosaur kale), are ready to harvest in about 50–60 days, but you can start picking baby leaves even earlier.
Rabbits love kale for its slightly bitter taste, but it’s best to feed it in moderation due to its calcium content. Daisy was obsessed with kale, so I made sure to rotate it with other greens to prevent overloading her diet. Watching her crunch away at a curly leaf always brought a smile to my face. Can rabbits eat kale
3. Cilantro
Cilantro was one of Daisy’s absolute favorites. It has a bright, citrusy flavor that rabbits seem to adore. The best part? Cilantro grows fast—often ready for harvest in just 3–4 weeks after planting.
I grew cilantro in small pots on my windowsill, making it easy to snip off a few sprigs whenever Daisy wanted a treat. Even in hot weather, when some herbs struggled, cilantro thrived as long as it had enough water and sunlight. I loved how its fragrance filled the air when I watered it, and Daisy couldn’t get enough of its fresh, feathery leaves.
4. Parsley
Parsley is another fast-growing herb that rabbits can enjoy regularly. Flat-leaf and curly parsley varieties both grow quickly, with the first harvest often available within 3–4 weeks.
I planted parsley alongside other herbs in my garden, and it became a staple in Daisy’s diet. Its high levels of vitamins A and C made it a nutritious addition to her meals. What I loved most about parsley was its resilience—it grew well even when I forgot to water it a day or two. Daisy would happily munch on the bright green stems and leaves, her little tail wiggling in contentment. Can rabbits eat parsley
5. Spinach
Spinach was one of my go-to plants for a quick, nutrient-packed harvest. Baby spinach leaves were ready to pick in just 4–6 weeks, and the plants kept producing as long as I harvested regularly.
Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins, making it a great addition to a rabbit’s diet. However, like kale, it’s best fed in moderation due to its oxalate content. I often mixed spinach with other greens for variety, and Daisy seemed to appreciate the change in texture and flavor.
6. Basil
If there’s one herb that screams summer, it’s basil. Its sweet, aromatic leaves grow rapidly, often ready for harvest within 3–4 weeks. For rabbits, basil is a safe and flavorful treat that can be offered a few times a week.
Growing basil was one of my favorite gardening experiences. I loved brushing past the plants and catching their sweet, peppery scent, and Daisy loved nibbling on the soft leaves. Basil thrived in pots on my patio, making it easy to access whenever I needed to brighten up her meals—or my pasta dishes!
7. Dandelion Greens
Dandelion greens might already grow in your yard without any effort! These “weeds” are actually a rabbit superfood, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and potassium.
When I first learned that dandelions were safe for rabbits, I was thrilled to have a free, fast-growing food source. The leaves can be harvested almost as soon as they appear, and they regrow quickly after cutting. I loved the idea of turning something most people consider a nuisance into a healthy treat for Daisy. She’d gobble them up with enthusiasm, stems and all.
8. Arugula (Rocket)
Arugula, or rocket, is another fast-growing green that rabbits love. Its spicy, peppery flavor makes it a unique addition to their diet. I found that arugula seeds sprouted quickly, and I could start harvesting baby leaves in just 3 weeks.
Daisy enjoyed arugula’s tender leaves, though I noticed she preferred them mixed with milder greens like lettuce. Arugula grew so quickly that I could barely keep up with its production, which was perfect for a rabbit with an endless appetite.
9. Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is a versatile and fast-growing vegetable that can add color and nutrition to your rabbit’s meals. Its vibrant stems and large leaves grow rapidly, with baby leaves ready for harvest in just 4–5 weeks.
While Daisy enjoyed nibbling on chard, I made sure to feed it sparingly due to its calcium content. I planted rainbow chard in my garden, and its colorful stems brightened up both the garden and Daisy’s bowl. Watching her nibble on a bright yellow stem always made me laugh—it looked like she was eating a little piece of sunshine.
10. Mint
Mint was another big hit with Daisy, though I quickly learned to plant it in containers to keep it from taking over the garden. Mint grows like wildfire, producing fragrant, tender leaves that are ready to harvest in just a few weeks.
I’d often pick a handful of mint to mix with Daisy’s other greens, and she’d dive right in, savoring its fresh, cooling flavor. Mint also made a lovely addition to summer drinks for me, so it was a win-win for both of us!
Tips for Growing Rabbit-Friendly Plants
Growing a rabbit-friendly garden doesn’t require a green thumb—just a bit of planning and care. Here are some tips I picked up along the way:
Start Small: If you’re new to gardening, begin with a few easy-to-grow plants like lettuce, parsley, or cilantro.
Use Organic Methods: Avoid pesticides or chemical fertilizers that could harm your rabbit. Stick to organic soil and natural pest control methods.
Harvest Regularly: Many fast-growing plants, like lettuce and kale, produce more when harvested frequently. Pick leaves as soon as they’re ready to encourage continuous growth.
Rotate Crops: Growing a variety of plants not only provides your rabbit with a diverse diet but also helps maintain healthy soil in your garden.
Protect Your Plants: Rabbits are natural foragers, so if you’re growing outdoors, consider using fencing or netting to keep wild rabbits from munching on your crops.
FAQ: 10 Fast-Growing Plants That Rabbits Can Eat
1. Why should I grow fast-growing plants for my rabbit instead of buying greens from the store?
Growing your own fast-growing plants for your rabbit offers several advantages. First, it’s cost-effective. Rabbits, especially if they have a healthy appetite, can go through greens quickly, and buying fresh produce from the store every week can add up. By growing your own, you’ll save money while maintaining a steady supply of fresh, nutritious greens.
Second, homegrown plants are fresher and more nutrient-rich. Store-bought greens often sit in transit and on shelves for days, losing some of their nutritional value. When you grow your own, you can harvest the plants at their peak and serve them to your rabbit immediately.
Finally, gardening is a rewarding and therapeutic activity. I remember how satisfying it was to step into my garden, snip off a fresh sprig of cilantro, and watch Daisy, my rabbit, eagerly munch on it. It created a deeper connection between me and her care routine. Plus, you have complete control over the growing process, ensuring your greens are chemical-free and 100% safe for your bunny.
2. How much space do I need to grow plants for my rabbit?
You don’t need a huge backyard to grow rabbit-friendly plants! Many fast-growing greens and herbs, like lettuce, spinach, and cilantro, thrive in small spaces, including pots and containers. A sunny windowsill, balcony, or even a patio can provide enough space to grow a variety of plants for your rabbit.
For example, I started my first rabbit-friendly garden with just a few pots on my balcony. I grew basil, parsley, and mint in separate containers, and they thrived with minimal space and effort. Over time, I expanded to a small raised bed in my backyard, where I added kale and lettuce.
If you’re working with limited space, focus on plants that produce continuously, like cut-and-come-again lettuce or herbs that regrow after harvesting. You’d be amazed how much you can grow in a few pots or a compact garden bed.
3. Are there any plants that grow too quickly and could take over my garden?
Yes, some plants—especially herbs like mint—are notorious for spreading rapidly and taking over garden beds. Mint, for example, sends out underground runners that can sprout new plants far from where you originally planted it. While this fast growth makes it a great option for rabbits, it’s best to grow mint in a container to keep it contained.
Similarly, dandelions, while highly nutritious for rabbits, can quickly spread if left unchecked. They’re technically weeds and can pop up in places you don’t want them. If you’re growing dandelion greens intentionally, consider harvesting frequently to prevent them from going to seed.
By growing these plants in pots or dedicating a specific area to them, you can enjoy their rapid growth without worrying about them taking over your garden. For me, keeping mint and dandelions in containers was the perfect solution—I always had plenty for Daisy without sacrificing control over my garden space.
4. Are there any fast-growing plants I should avoid feeding my rabbit?
Yes, while many fast-growing plants are safe and healthy for rabbits, some should be avoided because they’re either toxic or not suitable for their sensitive digestive systems. Here are a few to watch out for:
Iceberg Lettuce: Although it grows quickly, iceberg lettuce has little nutritional value and is too watery, which can cause diarrhea in rabbits. Stick to darker, nutrient-rich lettuces like romaine or leaf lettuce.
Onions and Garlic: These plants are toxic to rabbits and should never be included in their diet.
Tomato Leaves: While the fruit of a tomato plant is safe for rabbits in small amounts, the leaves and stems are toxic.
Potato Greens: Potato plants (leaves and stems) contain compounds that are harmful to rabbits.
Rhubarb: Both the stalks and leaves of rhubarb are poisonous to rabbits and should be avoided entirely.
When I first started gardening for Daisy, I made a list of rabbit-safe plants and stuck to it. If I wasn’t sure about a plant, I’d double-check before letting her anywhere near it. This cautious approach helped me avoid any potential health risks.
5. How often should I harvest the plants to keep them growing?
The frequency of harvesting depends on the type of plant, but most fast-growing greens and herbs benefit from regular harvesting. This practice not only keeps your plants healthy but also ensures a steady supply of fresh food for your rabbit.
Lettuce and Kale: These are cut-and-come-again plants, meaning you can harvest the outer leaves while leaving the inner ones to continue growing. I harvested lettuce for Daisy every few days, and the plants kept producing new leaves for weeks.
Herbs (Cilantro, Parsley, Basil, Mint): Herbs grow best when pruned frequently. Snipping the top leaves encourages the plant to grow bushier and produce more. I’d trim a few sprigs of cilantro or basil for Daisy twice a week, and the plants always bounced back quickly.
Spinach: Similar to lettuce, you can pick spinach leaves individually as they mature. Regular harvesting helps prevent the plant from bolting (flowering), which can make the leaves bitter.
I found that a little attention and consistent harvesting went a long way in keeping my rabbit-friendly garden thriving. Plus, it was a joy to head outside with scissors in hand, knowing I was about to treat Daisy to the freshest greens possible.
6. Can I grow plants for my rabbit indoors during the winter?
Absolutely! Many fast-growing plants can be grown indoors year-round with the right setup. All you need is a sunny windowsill, a few pots, and good-quality soil. Herbs like cilantro, parsley, and basil do particularly well indoors, as they don’t require as much space or light as larger vegetables.
For winter growing, consider using a grow light to supplement natural sunlight. I set up a small indoor garden with an inexpensive grow light during the colder months, and my plants thrived. Lettuce, spinach, and even kale grew surprisingly well indoors, providing a steady supply of greens for Daisy even when the ground outside was frozen.
Indoor gardening also gave me a new appreciation for the process of growing food. There was something cozy about tending to plants on a snowy day, knowing they’d soon end up as a healthy snack for Daisy. If you haven’t tried indoor gardening, I highly recommend it—it’s easier than you think and just as rewarding.
Growing fast-growing plants for Daisy was one of the most rewarding parts of being a rabbit owner. Not only did it ensure she always had fresh, nutritious food, but it also deepened my connection to nature and the process of caring for her. Watching her enjoy a bowl of greens I’d grown myself was a simple joy that made all the effort worthwhile.
If you’re considering starting your own rabbit-friendly garden, I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re growing lettuce in a window box or cilantro in a backyard garden, you’ll find that the process is as satisfying for you as it is for your furry friend.
Happy gardening—and happy munching to your rabbit!
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