How to Protect Your Tomato Plants from Animals

Tomatoes are a prized possession for both home gardeners and commercial farmers alike. Unfortunately, animals such as deer, rabbits, squirrels, and birds also find them very desirable. Protecting your tomato plants from animals is essential if you want to enjoy a bountiful harvest. Here are some techniques that you can use to keep your tomato plants safe.

Physical Barriers

Physical barriers are a straightforward way to keep animals away from your tomato plants. One popular option is to use a wire fence that's at least eight feet tall to keep deer out of your garden. You can also install a low fence around the perimeter of your garden to keep rabbits and squirrels away.

Another option is to use individual tomato cages around each plant. These cages act as a barrier and can prevent animals from accessing your plants. Additionally, cages can also help support your tomato plants as they grow, keeping them from falling over.

Deterrents

Deterrents are an effective way to keep animals away from your tomato plants. One popular option is to use a motion-activated sprinkler system. When an animal comes near the sprinkler, it sprays water, which helps scare the animal away. Another option is to use a chemical deterrent, such as hot pepper spray, to deter animals from eating your tomato plants.

You can also use decoys to deter animals from your garden. One effective decoy is a fake owl, which can keep birds away from your tomato plants. Alternatively, you can hang shiny objects in your garden, such as CDs or aluminum foil, to deter birds and other animals from approaching your tomato plants.

Companion Planting

Companion planting refers to planting two or more crops together that benefit each other. Planting herbs such as basil, parsley, or cilantro near your tomato plants can be an effective way to deter pests. The strong scent of these herbs can mask the scent of the tomato plants, making them less attractive to animals.

Another option is to plant marigolds near your tomato plants. The strong odor given off by marigolds can repel a range of pests, including rabbits and squirrels. Additionally, marigolds can also help attract beneficial insects to your garden, such as ladybugs and hoverflies.

Conclusion

Tomato plants are vulnerable to damage from a variety of animals. However, using physical barriers, deterrents, and companion planting can be an effective way to keep your tomato plants safe. With these techniques, you'll be able to enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes without any worry of animals ruining your hard work.