Hmmm, we don't have any poisonous snakes in Western WA, so its not something that I need to design around. I'd consult your local garden center or a local designer for tips on designing with your local wildlife in mind.

CJ, I can certainly relate to your concern. I keep it plain only because of the great fear of snakes. I will try sulfur....per another reader.

Excellent point. I have a phobia of snakes. It doesn't matter if they are poisonous or not, or even fake! I freeze up, get paralyzed, and can't breathe! So as beautiful as this garden is I could never live with it. I must be able to see the ground underneath my plantings!

Plant plants that deter snakes & the rodents they feed on. Rosemary, lavender, peppermint(Can be invasive)sage.

Consult a pest control company. The last time I talked with one about a snake problem they said, "get rid of the mice and the snakes will go away." Interesting.

The snakes get rid of the mice, so they are beneficial. Free natural pest control.

Only poisonous snakes need to be away from human habitation.

It's funny, but you WILL eventually get used to seeing snakes over time. They are equally afraid of you. You are probably more likely to be bitten by a spider.

D D, That is not true. I grew up in SE Alabama and it's the reason I stay in Western WA and only go home to visit. I hated growing up where I always had to watch where I put my feet. And if you have a true phobia of snakes you do NOT ever get used to seeing snakes whether poisonous or not.

True phobias are a whole different thing. sfitz1000 makes a good point, take away their food source.