Introduction

Strawberry plants are a popular choice for outdoor potted plants because of their compact size and delicious fruit. However, these plants also attract a variety of animals such as birds, squirrels, raccoons, and even deer. In order to protect your potted strawberry plants from these animals, you need to take certain steps.

Choose the Right Location

The first step in protecting your potted strawberry plants is to choose the right location. Ideally, the plants should be placed in an area that is not easily accessible to animals. This may mean placing the plants up high on a balcony or patio, or in an enclosed space such as a screened-in porch. If your only option is to keep the plants on the ground, make sure the area is well lit and clear of any hiding spots for animals.

Create Barriers

If animals are still able to reach your plants, you can create physical barriers to keep them away. For example, you can use chicken wire or mesh netting to cover the plants. Make sure the barrier is secured tightly to the pot, so animals cannot slip underneath. Another option is to use a cone-shaped collar made of wire mesh or hardware cloth around the base of the plant to prevent animals from digging up the roots.

Use Repellents

There are several natural repellents that can be used to deter animals from getting too close to your potted strawberry plants. One of the most effective repellents is blood meal, which is a dry, powdery substance made from the blood of animals. Sprinkling blood meal around the plants creates an unpleasant scent that animals find offensive. You can also use garlic or cayenne pepper spray to keep animals at bay. Just be careful not to get any of these repellents on the plants themselves, as they can harm the leaves and fruit.

Attract Natural Predators

An alternative way to protect your potted strawberry plants is to attract natural predators to your garden. For example, birds of prey such as hawks and owls feed on small mammals like squirrels and rabbits. By providing a habitat for these birds, you may be able to keep animal populations in check. Similarly, domestic cats and dogs can also help keep animals away from your potted plants.

Conclusion

Protecting your potted strawberry plants from animals requires a combination of strategies. Choosing the right location, creating physical barriers, using natural repellents, and attracting predators can all help keep animals away from your plants. With a little effort, you can enjoy delicious strawberries without having to share them with unwanted visitors.