Introduction

Squirrels are cute and adorable creatures that are always hopping around in the garden, and while they may seem harmless, they can wreak havoc on your tomato plants by gnawing through stems, digging up bulbs, and eating fruits and vegetables from your vegetable garden. So, how can you keep squirrels out of your tomato plants?

Use Natural Squirrel Repellents

One of the easiest ways to keep squirrels out of your tomato plants is by using natural squirrel repellents. Some natural choices include using hot pepper spray, garlic, or red pepper flakes. These common household ingredients can be mixed with water and sprayed on your tomato plants to deter squirrels from coming near them. Other natural repellents include placing coffee grounds, ammonia, or vinegar around your tomato plants. These strong-smelling substances can confuse squirrels and discourage them from sticking around.

Build A Physical Barrier

Another way to protect your tomato plants from squirrels is by building a physical barrier around them. This can be done using chicken wire or hardware cloth. Simply secure the wire or cloth around the base of your tomato plants, creating a protective barrier. This will prevent squirrels from digging up the bulbs or gnawing through the stems.

Use Decoys

Decoys are another effective way to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants. Squirrels are territorial creatures and will avoid areas where they spot other squirrels. By placing realistic squirrel decoys around your tomato plants, you can trick squirrels into thinking that the area is already occupied. This will discourage them from entering your vegetable garden and will keep your tomato plants safe and secure.

Provide Alternative Food Sources For Squirrels

If you want to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants without harming them, you can provide alternative food sources for them. Squirrels enjoy nuts, fruit, and vegetables, so consider leaving out some feeders or birdseed in a different area of your yard to keep them occupied. This will keep squirrels away from your tomato plants while still allowing them to enjoy a tasty snack.

Conclusion

Squirrels can be frustrating pests that can wreak havoc on your tomato plants and vegetable garden. However, there are several ways to keep them out. Natural squirrel repellents, physical barriers, decoys, and alternative food sources are effective methods that can help protect your garden and keep squirrels at bay. By implementing these techniques, you can enjoy healthy, flourishing tomato plants and a flourishing vegetable garden free from pesky squirrels.