Plants that Gophers Hate: Keep Your Garden Safe From These Pesky Pests

The Problem with Gophers

Gophers can be a real problem for gardeners and landscapers. These small rodents can burrow through your lawn and garden, uprooting plants and creating unsightly mounds of dirt. They can also cause damage to irrigation systems and other underground utilities.

One way to deal with gophers is to use traps or poisons, but those methods can be dangerous to pets and other wildlife. A safer and more natural approach is to plant vegetation that gophers don't like. In this article, we'll explore some of the best plants for keeping gophers at bay.

Plants That Gophers Hate

Alliums

Alliums, such as garlic, onions, and chives, are known for their pungent aroma and flavor. But did you know that gophers can't stand the smell of alliums? Planting these bulbs in your garden can help keep gophers away. Alliums are also low-maintenance, making them a great choice for busy gardeners.

Daffodils

Daffodils are another bulbous plant that gophers dislike. These cheerful flowers come in a variety of colors and bloom in the spring. Not only do they repel gophers, but they also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Just make sure not to plant daffodils near other bulbs, as they can release chemicals that are toxic to other plants.

Catnip

Catnip is a popular herb for cats, but it turns out that gophers can't stand the smell of it either. Planting catnip in your garden can help deter gophers and other rodents. Plus, it's a great way to attract feline friends to your yard!

Mint

Mint is another herb that gophers dislike. Its strong scent and flavor make it an excellent choice for repelling these pests. Mint is also easy to grow and can be used in a variety of dishes and drinks.

Marigolds

Marigolds are not only beautiful, but they're also great for repelling gophers. These hardy annuals come in a range of colors and require minimal care. They also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a great addition to any garden.

Fritillarias

Fritillarias are bulbous plants that are native to Europe and Asia. They have a distinctive checkered pattern on their petals and are known for their unusual appearance. But did you know that they're also great for keeping gophers away? Planting fritillarias in your garden can help repel these pesky rodents.

Euphorbias

Euphorbias are a diverse group of plants that includes everything from succulents to shrubs. Many species of euphorbia contain a sticky, milky sap that is toxic to animals. This sap also has a strong odor that gophers don't like. Some popular varieties of euphorbia include spurge, crown-of-thorns, and poinsettia.

Datura

Datura, also known as angel's trumpet, is a striking plant with fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers. But it's also toxic to gophers and other rodents, making it an excellent choice for keeping them away from your garden. Just be careful, as datura can also be toxic to humans and pets.

Lavender

Lavender is a popular herb for its soothing scent and beautiful purple flowers. But it turns out that gophers don't like the smell of lavender either. Planting this herb in your garden can help keep these pests away, while also attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Geraniums

Geraniums are a popular bedding plant that come in a range of colors and varieties. They're also great for repelling gophers! Planting geraniums in your garden can help keep these pests away, while also adding a pop of color to your landscaping.

Salvias

Salvias, also known as sage, are a group of plants that are prized for their aromatic leaves and colorful flowers. But did you know that they're also great for repelling gophers? Planting salvias in your garden can help keep these pests away, while also providing a source of fresh herbs for cooking.

Thyme

Thyme is another herb that gophers dislike. Its strong aroma and flavor make it an excellent choice for repelling these pests. Thyme is also easy to grow and can be used in a variety of dishes.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a popular herb for its fragrant leaves and delicate blue flowers. But it also has a strong scent that gophers don't like. Planting rosemary in your garden can help keep these pests away, while also providing a source of fresh herbs for cooking.

Hyacinths

Hyacinths are a bulbous plant that produces fragrant flowers in the spring. They're also great for repelling gophers! Planting hyacinths in your garden can help keep these pests away, while also adding a burst of color to your landscaping.

Narcissus

Narcissus, also known as daffodils, are another bulbous plant that gophers dislike. These cheerful flowers come in a range of colors and bloom in the spring. Planting narcissus in your garden can help keep gophers away, while also providing a source of bright blooms.

Castor Bean

Castor beans are a large, tropical plant that produces striking foliage and seed pods. But they're also toxic to gophers and other rodents, making them an excellent choice for repelling these pests. Just be careful, as castor beans are also toxic to humans and pets.

FAQs

Q: How do I know if I have gophers in my garden?

A: Look for mounds of dirt or raised tunnels in your lawn or garden. You may also notice plants that have been uprooted or damaged from below.

Q: Are traps or poisons a safe way to deal with gophers?

A: Traps and poisons can be dangerous to pets and other wildlife, so it's important to use them carefully and responsibly. Consider using natural methods like planting repellent vegetation before resorting to more extreme measures.

Q: Can I plant these repellent plants in containers?

A: Yes, many of these plants can be grown in containers or raised beds. Just make sure to use a high-quality potting soil and provide adequate drainage.

Q: How often do I need to replant these repellent plants?

A: Most of these plants will continue to repel gophers for several years without needing to be replanted. However, it's a good idea to monitor your garden regularly for signs of damage and replace any plants that have been uprooted or eaten.

Q: Are there any other natural ways to repel gophers?

A: Yes, some other natural methods include using sound or vibration devices, planting predator-attracting plants like hawksweed or milkweed, and using castor oil-based repellents.

In planting repellent vegetation is a safe and natural way to deal with gophers in your garden or yard. By incorporating some of the plants listed above into your landscaping, you can create a beautiful and pest-free outdoor space. Just remember to monitor your garden regularly and replant as needed to keep those pesky rodents at bay!