Introduction

Squirrels are cute, furry creatures that can wreak havoc in your garden if they get into your potted plants. They are known to dig up bulbs, eat flowers and foliage, and even chew on the bark of trees. If you love your potted plants and want to keep squirrels away, then read on. In this article, we will look at some effective ways to keep squirrels out of your potted plants.

Why squirrels are attracted to potted plants?

Squirrels are attracted to potted plants for a variety of reasons. One of the main reasons is that potted plants provide shelter and food for them. The soil in the pot is a perfect place for them to dig and store their nuts. Potted plants also provide a source of water, especially during the hot summer months.

How to keep squirrels out of your potted plants?

Here are some effective ways to keep squirrels out of your potted plants:

1. Use a physical barrier

One of the easiest ways to keep squirrels out of your potted plants is to use a physical barrier. You can use chicken wire, hardware cloth, or mesh to cover the pot. Make sure the mesh is fine enough to prevent squirrels from squeezing through.

2. Place your potted plants strategically

Squirrels are excellent climbers, so it is important to place your potted plants in a location that is difficult for them to reach. For example, you can place your potted plants on a high ledge or hang them from a tree branch. Make sure the pot is secure and cannot be knocked over.

3. Use repellents

There are several natural squirrel repellents that you can use to keep them away from your potted plants. These include:

- Cayenne pepper: Sprinkle cayenne pepper around the base of your potted plants. The hot and spicy smell will deter squirrels.

- Garlic: Plant garlic around the base of your potted plants or place garlic cloves in the soil. The strong smell of garlic will keep squirrels away.

- Predator urine: You can buy fox or coyote urine from a garden center or online. The smell of predator urine will scare squirrels away.

4. Provide an alternative food source

If you want to keep squirrels away from your potted plants, then you need to provide an alternative food source for them. You can do this by placing a squirrel feeder in your garden or hanging a corn cob or birdseed in a tree. This will keep the squirrels occupied and away from your potted plants.

5. Use a motion-activated sprinkler

Motion-activated sprinklers are a great way to keep squirrels out of your potted plants. They work by spraying water when the motion sensor detects the presence of an animal. This will startle the squirrel and make it run away.

Conclusion

There you have it, five effective ways to keep squirrels out of your potted plants. Whether you choose to use a physical barrier or a natural repellent, the most important thing is to take action. With a little effort, you can keep these cute but pesky creatures away from your beloved potted plants.