How to keep squirrels out of garden

Keeping squirrels out of your garden can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can protect your plants and produce.

Here are some effective tips:

1. Physical Barriers

• Fencing: Install a wire mesh or hardware cloth fence around your garden. Bury the bottom at least 6 inches deep to prevent squirrels from digging underneath.
• Netting: Cover plants with bird netting or chicken wire, especially during peak growing seasons.
• Cages: Protect individual plants or pots with DIY cages made from hardware cloth.

2. Repellents

• Smell-Based: Use natural repellents like crushed garlic, pepper flakes, or vinegar around the perimeter of your garden. Commercial squirrel repellents are also available.
• Taste-Based: Spray plants with a homemade mix of water, hot pepper sauce, and dish soap.
• Plant Deterrents: Add plants that squirrels dislike, such as daffodils, mint, or marigolds, around your garden as a natural barrier.

3. Decoys and Distractions

• Decoy Feeders: Set up a separate feeding area with food squirrels love (e.g., sunflower seeds or corn) to keep them away from your garden.
• Fake Predators: Place fake owls, snakes, or hawks in your garden. Move them regularly so squirrels don’t get used to them.

4. Motion-Activated Devices

• Use motion-activated sprinklers, lights, or noise makers to startle and deter squirrels.

5. Garden Maintenance

• Clean Up: Remove fallen fruits, nuts, and seeds that might attract squirrels.
• Mulch: Spread mulch or gravel around plants to make digging less appealing.

6. Trapping and Relocation

• As a last resort, use humane traps to capture and relocate squirrels. Check local regulations before trapping wildlife.

7. Protect Bird Feeders

• Use squirrel-proof feeders and place them away from your garden. Install baffles on poles to prevent squirrels from climbing.

8. Guard Your Compost

• Cover compost bins securely to avoid attracting squirrels with food scraps.

9. Use Technology

• Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sounds that deter squirrels without disturbing humans.

By combining these strategies, you can significantly reduce squirrel activity in your garden. Persistence is key, as squirrels are clever and persistent themselves!

What do you think?