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Re: [SHADEGARDENS] Helleborus and rodents

When I was between cats for a couple of years, I had horrible vole
problems.  The little *^%$#@!s ate the roots off most of my hosta clumps,
but they never have gone near my hellebores.  I've had no mice problems
that I know of, although I have a lot of field mice around...only one time
and I don't know whether it was mice or voles, when I planted several rows
of tulips in the veggie garden for cutting and one or the other of the
critters had a nice, fat winter.  I found a small tunnel right down the
rows and not one bulb survived.  I've also had them eat lily bulbs, but
really can't think of any other perennials they have attacked like they did
the hostas.  Also have my share of moles; I just stomp their tunnels down
and leave them alone -- they are after grubs and earthworms and with my
clay soil, I figure they are improving drainage for me.

If you are concerned, try interplanting with narcissus as no critters will
eat them.  I have found that encircling lily bulbs with narcissus of any
kind protects them from hungry critters below ground.

Marge Talt, zone 7 Maryland
mtalt@clark.net
Editor:  Gardening in Shade
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> From: Keith Maw <mapworks@CONNECTEXPRESS.COM>
> Date: Monday, March 09, 1998 1:06 PM
>
> We're thinking about planting some new yellow helleborus x hybridus in
> an area which is interlaced with mole trails.  Since these trails are
> often used as runways for mice, voles, etc., we've some reservations -
> even though we've seen no mice.  Does anyone have any experience with
> this situation?  Is anyone aware of a list of plants which are tasty to
> and/or disliked by mice and their ilk? Thanks..
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