Question: I've read that mice and voles wonOt eat narcissus and allium bulbs. Are there any other hardy, rodent-resistant bulbs? All my tulips were eaten last year.

Answer: Here is a list of other bulbs reputed to be "least attractive to rodents." Spring-flowering bulbs: Camassia (wild hyacinth), lily of the valley, galanthus (snowdrops), hyacinth, and scilla. Summer- and fall-flowering bulbs: Anemone, oxalis, crocosmia.However, you donOt need to limit yourself to the bulbs animals won't eat. There are a number of ways to deter the pests. If your problem is underground rodents such as voles or gophers, you can plant your bulbs in wire mesh cages or try surrounding the bulbs with coarse gravel when planting. If your problem includes above ground pests such as rabbits, deer, or squirrels, there are a number of repellents to use, including hot pepper spray, garlic, blood meal, and vinegar. Repellents can also be applied to the bulbs before planting.