How to protect my tomato plants from squirrels

Squirrels are notorious for destroying gardens and eating fruits and vegetables, including tomato plants. If you are a tomato enthusiast, you have probably experienced the frustration of seeing your hard work and harvest disappear overnight due to these cute but pesky rodents. Fortunately, there are several ways to protect your tomato plants from squirrels. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Install physical barriers

One of the most effective ways to protect tomato plants from squirrels is to create physical barriers that prevent them from accessing the garden. Some options include:

Wire mesh: install a sturdy wire mesh fence around the garden or individual tomato plants.

Bird netting: cover the plants with bird netting, which is made of polypropylene and is very durable.

Cages: create cages from hardware cloth or chicken wire to surround the tomato plants.

Effective physical barriers should be tall enough to keep squirrels out and strong enough to withstand their attempts to chew through or jump over them.

2. Use repellents

Repellents are another way to protect tomato plants from squirrels. Some common repellents include:

Hot pepper spray: mix hot peppers or pepper flakes with water and spray them on the tomato plants. The strong smell and flavor of the peppers will deter squirrels.

Blood meal: sprinkle blood meal around the tomato plants. The scent of the blood meal will repel squirrels.

Mothballs: place mothballs around the tomato plants. The strong scent of the mothballs will drive squirrels away.

Be sure to read and follow the instructions carefully when using repellents, as some may be harmful to your plants or pets.

3. Plant other crops squirrels prefer

Squirrels have favorite foods, and planting these in a separate area of your yard may help keep them away from your tomato plants. Consider planting corn, sunflowers, or nuts, which are all popular with squirrels.

4. Set up a decoy feeding area

If all else fails, you can set up a decoy feeding area for squirrels to distract them from your tomato plants. Place food, such as sunflower seeds or peanuts, in a corner of your yard away from your garden. This may encourage squirrels to eat there instead of in your garden.

Remember that squirrels are intelligent and persistent animals, and it may take a combination of methods to keep them away from your tomato plants. By implementing some of these tips and regularly monitoring your garden, you should be able to enjoy a healthy and productive tomato harvest.