Introduction

It is frustrating to see your tomato plants destroyed by animals. Whether it is birds or insects, animals can easily destroy your hard work within a few hours. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to take some preventive measures. Here are some ways to keep animals from eating your tomato plants.

Use Netting

One of the most effective ways to prevent birds from eating your tomatoes is to use bird netting. Bird netting is made up of small holes that prevent birds from getting near the tomatoes. This netting can be easily fixed on to wooden stakes or metal hoops that are placed over the plants. This method not only prevents birds from eating your plants but also keeps insects away.

Plant Herbs

Planting herbs such as garlic, basil, and mint around your tomato plants can deter animals from eating them. These herbs have a strong aroma that repels animals. The strong smell of these herbs can mask the scent of your tomato plants and prevent animals from coming near them.

Use Repellents

Several natural and chemical repellents are available in the market that can deter animals from eating your tomato plants. These repellents work by creating a foul smell, taste, or by irritating the animals' noses. Some common natural repellents include hot pepper spray, vinegar, and cinnamon. Chemical repellents such as mothballs, predator urine, and ammonia products also work effectively. However, chemical repellents should be used with caution around edible plants.

Companion Planting

Companion planting is an effective way to keep animals from eating your tomato plants. This method involves planting specific plants around the tomato plants that repel animals. For example, planting marigolds, chives, or scallions around your tomato plants can deter animals. Further, companion planting can also help in improving the quality of your tomato plants.

Install Fencing

If you have a large garden, installing a fence can prevent animals from entering the garden and eating your plants. The fence should be high enough to prevent animals from jumping over it. Further, the spacing between the fence's bars should be small enough to prevent animals from slipping through. Additionally, you can also install electric fences that emit a mild shock to prevent animals from entering the garden.

Conclusion

Keeping animals away from your tomato plants can be a challenging task. However, by taking some preventive measures, you can easily protect your plants from being eaten. Some of the most effective ways to keep animals away from your tomato plants include using bird netting, planting herbs, using repellents, companion planting, and installing fencing. By following these methods, you can ensure that your tomato plants grow healthy and bear fruit without any interruption.