Are squirrels and chipmunks ruining your garden?
These fluffy-tailed bandits may be cute, but their destructive habits can be a major headache for gardeners. Luckily, there’s a natural and humane solution to keep them at bay: their noses.
That’s right, these critters have a keen sense of smell, and there are certain scents they simply can’t stand.
1. Predator Urine
The scent of predator urine, such as that from foxes or coyotes, triggers a natural fear response in squirrels and chipmunks. These small mammals instinctively avoid areas where they smell their predators, as it signals potential danger.
Predator urine can be purchased at some garden centers, hunting supply stores, or online retailers. This method may not be suitable for everyone, as some people find the smell unpleasant.
2. Peppermint
The strong, menthol scent of peppermint is overwhelming to the sensitive noses of squirrels and chipmunks. They find it irritating and unpleasant, which makes them avoid areas where it’s present.
Peppermint oil can be diluted and sprayed around gardens or entry points to deter these pests.
3. Cayenne Pepper
The capsaicin in cayenne pepper creates a burning sensation when it comes into contact with the skin or mucous membranes. Squirrels and chipmunks, like many animals, have a natural aversion to this spicy heat.
Sprinkling cayenne pepper powder or flakes around plants or mixing it with water to create a spray can help keep these critters at bay.
4. Garlic
The pungent odor of garlic is another scent that squirrels and chipmunks find repulsive. It’s a natural deterrent for many animals, including insects and some larger mammals.
Planting garlic in the garden or using garlic spray can help protect plants from these pesky rodents.
5. Eucalyptus
The strong, camphor-like scent of eucalyptus is overwhelming to the delicate olfactory systems of squirrels and chipmunks. It acts as a natural repellent, making them avoid areas where it’s present.
Eucalyptus oil can be diluted and sprayed around the garden or entry points to deter these animals.
6. Castor Oil
The strong, somewhat musky odor of castor oil is unpleasant to squirrels and chipmunks. It can irritate their noses and throats, making them avoid areas where it’s present.
Castor oil can be mixed with water and sprayed around the garden or applied to cotton balls placed near entry points.
7. Lavender
The sweet floral scent of lavender is pleasing to humans, but squirrels and chipmunks find it overwhelming and repelling. The strong fragrance masks other scents that may attract these animals, making it an effective deterrent.
Planting lavender in the garden or using lavender oil spray can help protect plants from these pests.
8. Rosemary
The pungent, woodsy aroma of rosemary is another scent that squirrels and chipmunks dislike. It’s a natural deterrent for many animals, including insects and some larger mammals.
Planting rosemary in the garden or using rosemary oil spray can help protect plants from these rodents.
9. Citronella
Primarily known for repelling mosquitoes, citronella also has some repellent effects on squirrels and chipmunks due to its strong citrusy scent.
While not as effective as other options, planting citronella around the garden or using citronella oil can contribute to a multi-faceted approach to deterring these pests.
10. Lemon
The sharp, citrusy smell of lemon is another scent that squirrels and chipmunks find unpleasant. It can be used in a similar way to citronella, either by planting lemon-scented plants like lemon balm or by using lemon oil spray.
11. Pine
The fresh, resinous scent of pine needles is naturally repellent to squirrels and chipmunks. It can be used by scattering pine needles around the garden or entry points, or by using pine oil spray. Pine oil should be diluted properly as it can be strong and harmful to plants in high concentrations.
While these natural repellents can be effective, their effectiveness may vary depending on the individual animal and the concentration of the scent. Regular reapplication may be necessary, especially after rain.
Always use natural repellents according to the manufacturer’s instructions and be mindful of pets and children when applying them.
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.