Keep Squirrels Out of Your Garden

The Problem with Squirrels in the Garden

Gardening is a wonderful hobby and can be a great way to grow fresh fruits and vegetables. However, squirrels can be a major problem for gardeners. These cute little critters can wreak havoc on your plants, digging up bulbs, eating fruit, and gnawing on bark.

Squirrels are known for their acrobatic skills and can climb trees, fences, and walls with ease. They can also jump up to 10 feet horizontally, making it difficult to keep them out of your garden.

But don't worry, there are plenty of ways to deter squirrels from your garden. In this article, we'll explore some of the most effective methods.

1. Physical Barriers

One of the best ways to keep squirrels out of your garden is to create physical barriers. You can use chicken wire or hardware cloth to create a fence around your garden. Make sure the fence is at least 3 feet high and buried at least 6 inches underground to prevent squirrels from digging underneath it.

You can also use bird netting to cover your plants. Just make sure the netting is secured tightly so that squirrels can't get underneath it.

1.1 Chicken Wire

Chicken wire is an excellent choice for creating a fence around your garden. It is sturdy and will prevent squirrels from climbing over it. To install chicken wire, dig a trench around the perimeter of your garden and bury the wire at least 6 inches deep. Then, attach the wire to wooden stakes using zip ties or wire.

1.2 Hardware Cloth

Hardware cloth is another great option for creating a fence around your garden. It is made of metal and is more durable than chicken wire. To install hardware cloth, follow the same steps as you would with chicken wire.

2. Repellents

Another way to keep squirrels out of your garden is to use repellents. There are several types of squirrel repellents available, including:

• Spray repellents
• Ultrasonic devices
• Electronic repellents
• Natural repellents

2.1 Spray Repellents

Spray repellents are a popular choice because they are easy to use and can be applied directly to plants. They work by emitting an unpleasant odor or taste that squirrels find unappealing. Some common spray repellents include hot pepper spray, garlic spray, and predator urine.

2.2 Ultrasonic Devices

Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sound waves that are designed to repel squirrels. The sound is inaudible to humans but can be heard by squirrels. These devices can be effective, but they may not work if there are obstacles in the way, such as trees or buildings.

2.3 Electronic Repellents

Electronic repellents work by emitting a high-pitched noise or flashing lights that scare squirrels away. These devices are usually powered by batteries and can be placed around the perimeter of your garden.

2.4 Natural Repellents

Natural repellents include things like mothballs, ammonia, and vinegar. These substances have strong odors that squirrels find unpleasant. You can place these items around your garden or mix them with water and spray them on your plants.

3. Traps

Trapping squirrels can be an effective way to get rid of them, but it is important to use humane traps. Live traps allow you to catch the squirrel without harming it, so you can release it in a safe location. Once you've caught the squirrel, make sure to release it at least 5 miles away from your garden.

3.1 Humane Traps

Humane traps are designed to capture squirrels without injuring them. These traps usually have a one-way door that allows the squirrel to enter but not exit. Once you've caught the squirrel, you can release it in a safe location.

3.2 Lethal Traps

Lethal traps are not recommended because they can harm or kill the squirrel. These traps include things like snap traps and glue traps. They should only be used as a last resort.

4. Squirrel-Proof Feeders

If you want to feed birds in your garden but don't want squirrels stealing the food, consider using squirrel-proof feeders. These feeders are designed to prevent squirrels from accessing the food by using mechanisms such as weight sensors or baffles.

4.1 Weight-Sensitive Feeders

Weight-sensitive feeders are designed to close when a squirrel or other large animal tries to access the food. The feeder will only open when a bird lands on it, which is usually too light to trigger the mechanism.

4.2 Baffled Feeders

Baffled feeders have a special design that makes it difficult for squirrels to climb up the pole and reach the food. The baffle is usually a dome-shaped device that sits above the feeder and makes it impossible for squirrels to climb up.

5. Other Tips

Here are some other tips for keeping squirrels out of your garden:

• Plant squirrel-resistant plants
• Remove fallen fruit and nuts from the ground
• Use motion-activated sprinklers
• Keep your garden clean and tidy

5.1 Squirrel-Resistant Plants

Some plants are less attractive to squirrels than others. Consider planting things like daffodils, alliums, or fritillaries. These plants have a strong odor that squirrels find unappealing.

5.2 Motion-Activated Sprinklers

Motion-activated sprinklers are a great way to scare squirrels away from your garden. When a squirrel enters the area, the sprinkler will turn on and spray water, scaring the squirrel away.

5.3 Keep Your Garden Clean and Tidy

Squirrels are attracted to cluttered areas where they can hide and store food. Keep your garden clean and tidy by removing debris and fallen leaves.

There are plenty of ways to keep squirrels out of your garden, from physical barriers to repellents and traps. By using a combination of these methods, you can create a squirrel-proof garden that is both beautiful and productive.

FAQs

1. Are squirrels harmful to my garden?

Squirrels can be harmful to your garden by digging up bulbs, eating fruit, and gnawing on bark. They can also spread diseases and parasites to your plants.

2. What is the best way to keep squirrels out of my garden?

The best way to keep squirrels out of your garden is to create physical barriers, use repellents, or trap them. You can also plant squirrel-resistant plants and remove fallen fruit and nuts from the ground.

3. How do I know if there are squirrels in my garden?

You can tell if there are squirrels in your garden by looking for signs such as dug-up bulbs, missing fruit, or gnawed bark.

4. Can I use mothballs to repel squirrels?

Yes, mothballs can be used to repel squirrels. However, they should be used with caution as they can be toxic to humans and pets.

5. What should I do if I catch a squirrel in a trap?

If you catch a squirrel in a trap, make sure to release it at least 5 miles away from your garden. You can also contact your local animal control agency for assistance.