How Do You Keep Squirrels Away from Tomato Plants?

Tomatoes are a popular garden crop, but they are also a favorite of squirrels. These critters can cause significant damage to tomato plants, and it can be challenging to keep them away. Fortunately, there are several effective methods for keeping squirrels out of your tomato garden. In this article, we'll explore some of the best ways you can protect your tomato plants from pesky squirrels.

Use a Physical Barrier

One of the most straightforward and effective ways to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants is to use a physical barrier. This can be as simple as placing a mesh fence around your garden or covering your tomato plants with bird netting. We recommend using a mesh size of no more than 1/2 inch to prevent squirrels from getting through the fence.

Another option is to cover individual tomato plants with chicken wire. Cut a piece of chicken wire large enough to cover the plant and gently drape it over the top, securing it with stakes or rocks. Make sure the wire completely covers the plant and extends several inches into the ground to prevent squirrels from burrowing underneath.

Use Repellents

There are several types of repellents that can be effective at keeping squirrels away from tomato plants. One popular option is to use a commercial repellent spray that contains capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers. Spray the solution around your tomato plants or directly onto the leaves to create a spicy barrier that squirrels will avoid.

Another option is to use predator urine, such as coyote or fox urine. This can be found at gardening or hunting stores and can be sprayed around the garden to deter squirrels. Keep in mind that the odor of the urine may be offensive to humans, so use this method with caution.

Plant Deterrents

There are several plants that have a strong scent that squirrels find unpleasant. Consider planting them around your tomato garden to help keep the squirrels away. Some examples include:

Mint

Lavender

Daffodils

Marigolds

Onions

Additionally, you could also plant some squirrel-resistant vegetables in your garden to help draw the squirrels' attention away from your tomato plants. Squirrels are less likely to bother plants like peppers, zucchini, and cucumbers.

Get Creative

If you're feeling particularly creative, there are a few other ways to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants. One option is to hang wind chimes or aluminum pie plates around your garden to create noise that will scare the squirrels away. Another option is to use a fake owl or snake to scare the squirrels off.

If all else fails, consider using a live trap to catch and relocate the squirrels. Be sure to check your local laws before attempting to capture wild animals.

Conclusion

There are numerous ways to keep squirrels away from tomato plants. Whether you choose to use a physical barrier, repellents, plant deterrents, or get creative with your solutions, it's important to take action to protect your garden from these pesky critters. With a little effort and a few tricks up your sleeve, you can enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest free from squirrel damage!