Introduction

Are you an avid gardener who loves to decorate your home with potted plants? Do you find it frustrating when your plants get attacked by chipmunks? Chipmunks may look cute but they can wreak havoc on your potted plants. They will eat the roots, seeds, and stems, destroying the plant in the process. In this article, we will discuss some effective ways to keep chipmunks out of your potted plants.

Use Physical Barriers

One of the most effective ways to keep chipmunks out of your potted plants is by using physical barriers. Some examples of these barriers include wire mesh or hardware cloth. You can use this material to cover the top of the soil in your plant pots. This will prevent the chipmunks from digging into the soil and eating the plant roots.

Another option is to create a fence around your potted plants to keep the chipmunks out. You can use wooden or plastic fencing material, and create a border around the plants. This will help to keep the chipmunks away from your plants, while still allowing them to receive sunlight and water.

Plant Repellent Plants

Another option to keep chipmunks out of your potted plants is to plant repellent plants nearby. Some plants release natural oils and fragrances that repel chipmunks. Examples of these plants include mint, lavender, and garlic. You can plant these plants near your potted plants, which will create a natural barrier that will repel the chipmunks.

Use Traps

If you have a severe chipmunk problem in your garden, you may want to consider using traps. There are many types of traps available, including live traps and kill traps. Live traps capture the chipmunks alive so that you can release them into the wild. Kill traps are designed to kill the chipmunks quickly and humanely.

When using traps, it is important to place them in the right location. Chipmunks tend to follow established paths, so you should place the trap along their path. Bait the trap with something that the chipmunks will find irresistible, such as peanut butter or sunflower seeds.

Chemical Repellents

There are also many chemical repellents available that can help to keep chipmunks out of your potted plants. These repellents can be sprayed on the plants and around the pots to create a barrier that the chipmunks will not want to cross.

Some examples of chemical repellents include cayenne pepper, hot sauce, and predator urine. These repellents can be mixed with water and sprayed onto the plants. It is important to follow the instructions on the label, as some repellents may harm the plants if applied incorrectly.

Conclusion

Chipmunks can be a nuisance for gardeners who love potted plants. However, with the tips above, you can keep these critters away from your plants. Use physical barriers, plant repellent plants, and use traps and chemical repellents to ensure that your potted plants stay safe and healthy.