Introduction

Squirrels are cute creatures that many people love to watch in nature. However, when they start to dig up your potted plants, they can quickly become a real problem. Not only can they kill your plants, but they can also make a mess in your garden. In this article, we will discuss various methods and techniques to stop squirrels from digging up potted plants.

Understand Why Squirrels Dig Up Potted Plants

Before we jump into the solutions, it is crucial to understand why squirrels dig up potted plants in the first place. Squirrels are curious creatures, and they like to explore their surroundings. They also love to bury their food, such as nuts, seeds, and acorns, in the soil. Therefore, if you have potted plants in your garden, squirrels may view them as a convenient place to bury their food. Additionally, squirrels may also dig up your plants if they are searching for a place to build their nests.

Use Protective Netting or Fencing

If you are looking for a reliable and effective way to stop squirrels from digging up your potted plants, you can use protective netting or fencing. Netting is an excellent method as it is easy to install and will not harm the squirrels. You can use wire mesh, bird netting, or hardware cloth to cover the soil around your potted plants. Make sure to secure the netting firmly, so the squirrels cannot remove it. Fencing is also a great option as it will keep squirrels out of your garden altogether. Make sure the fencing is buried deep enough in the ground so that squirrels cannot dig under it.

Use Squirrel Repellents

You can also use squirrel repellents that are specially designed to keep squirrels away from your potted plants. Some of the popular repellents include pepper sprays, predator urine, and garlic. These repellents work by emitting an odor that is unpleasant to the squirrels, and they will stay away from your potted plants. Some squirrel repellent brands also have natural ingredients that are safe for your plants and pets. However, it is essential to test the repellent on a small section of your plant first to ensure that it does not damage it.

Use Plants that Squirrels Dislike

Squirrels dislike certain plants and often avoid them. Therefore, you can use these plants around your potted plants to discourage squirrels from digging them up. Some examples of plants that squirrels dislike include daffodils, alliums, hyacinths, and fritillaries. You can also use herbs like lavender, rosemary, and mint. These plants not only keep squirrels away from your potted plants but also add beauty and fragrance to your garden.

Conclusion

Squirrels digging up potted plants can be a frustrating problem, but it is not insurmountable. You can use netting or fencing to keep squirrels out of your garden, repellents to discourage them, or use plants that squirrels dislike. However, it is essential to remember that squirrels are an essential part of the ecosystem, and their presence is beneficial to the environment. Therefore, it is vital to use humane methods to discourage squirrels from digging up your potted plants while still allowing them to live and thrive in your garden.