Are those bushy-tailed bandits wreaking havoc on your precious potted plants? Squirrels, while undeniably cute, can quickly become a gardener’s worst nightmare.
Their penchant for digging and snacking on bulbs has led to squirrel harvesting in 28 American states and six Canadian provinces between 2014 and 2016 alone.1
If you’re tired of battling these furry foes, here are 10 simple ways to banish squirrels from your garden and protect your beloved plants.
1. Protective Barriers
Create a physical barrier by covering the soil surface of your potted plants with chicken wire or hardware cloth.
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Securely cut the material to the size of your pot, ensuring enough space for the plant to grow while preventing squirrels from digging through to access the soil.
2. Repellent Sprays
Use commercial squirrel repellents or create your own using hot peppers, vinegar, or peppermint oil. Spray the mixture around the base of your plants and reapply regularly, especially after rain.
3. Distractions
Divert squirrels’ attention away from your potted plants by creating a separate feeding station for them in a different area of your yard or garden. Fill this designated spot with squirrel-friendly treats like nuts, seeds, or corn.
By providing an alternative food source, you can satisfy their foraging instincts and discourage them from digging in your pots.
4. Mulch
Discourage squirrels from digging in your potted plants by applying a thick layer of mulch to the soil surface. Opt for mulch materials with rough textures, such as gravel, bark chips, or pine cones.
The unpleasant texture makes it difficult and uncomfortable for squirrels to dig, protecting your plants from damage.
5. Raised Platforms
Make your potted plants less accessible to squirrels by elevating them off the ground. Utilize tables, shelves, or hanging baskets to display your plants at a height that deters squirrels from jumping or climbing.
6. Motion-Activated Sprinklers
Deter squirrels with a surprise burst of water by installing motion-activated sprinklers near your potted plants. When squirrels approach, the sprinkler’s sensor will trigger a sudden spray, startling them and discouraging them from returning.
7. Gravel
Protect your potted plants by mixing gravel into the top layer of soil. The sharp and uneven texture of the gravel creates an uncomfortable surface for squirrels to dig in.
This simple deterrent makes digging unpleasant for their paws, encouraging them to seek easier digging opportunities elsewhere.
8. Plant Deterrents
Incorporate plants they dislike into your pots. Daffodils, hyacinths, and alliums are known for their strong scents and flavors that squirrels find unpleasant.
By planting these alongside your desired plants, you create a natural barrier that discourages squirrels from digging or nibbling on your prized foliage.
9. Netting
Drape bird netting over your potted plants to create a physical barrier that thwarts squirrels. Secure the netting around the base of the pots, ensuring no gaps for squirrels to squeeze through.
10. Cleanliness
Keep the area surrounding your potted plants clean and free of any potential food sources that might attract squirrels. Regularly remove fallen fruits, nuts, or seeds from the ground as these can entice squirrels to dig in your pots in search of buried snacks.
A tidy environment can deter squirrels from approaching your plants in the first place.
Source:
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.