What Animal Eats Tomato Plants at Night?

Tomato plants are a staple in many gardens and provide a delicious addition to many meals. However, if you have ever gone out to your garden in the morning to find your tomato plants chewed up and damaged, you may be wondering what animal is responsible for this destruction. Here are some of the common animals that eat tomato plants at night.

Raccoons

Raccoons are notorious for raiding gardens at night and are common culprits for destroying tomato plants. These animals are omnivores and will eat just about anything, including fruits and vegetables. Since tomatoes are often ripe and easy to access, raccoons may be attracted to them and can quickly destroy an entire plant.

Squirrels

Squirrels may be cute and entertaining to watch, but they can wreak havoc on your garden. They are notorious for digging up bulbs and eating fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes. Squirrels are also known to be active at night, so they may be the culprits responsible for eating your tomato plants.

Deer

Deer are another common animal that can damage tomato plants at night. These animals are herbivores and will eat just about any plant they come across, including tomato plants. Deer are also known to be active at night, so if you have seen these animals in your area, they may be the ones responsible for the damage to your plants.

Groundhogs

Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are another common animal that can damage tomato plants at night. These large rodents are herbivores and will eat a variety of plants, including tomato plants. Groundhogs are also known to be active at night, so they may be the ones responsible for the damage to your garden.

How to Prevent Animal Damage to Tomato Plants

If you are tired of waking up to find your tomato plants chewed up and damaged, there are steps you can take to prevent animal damage. One of the most effective ways to prevent animal damage is to install a fence around your garden. Make sure the fence is at least 4 feet tall and bury it at least 6 inches deep to prevent animals from digging under it. You can also try using a motion-activated sprinkler or installing netting over your plants to keep animals away.

Another way to prevent animal damage is to make your garden less attractive to animals. This can be done by removing any fallen fruit and vegetables from the ground and harvesting ripe produce as soon as possible. You can also try planting herbs and flowers around your garden to deter animals from entering.

Conclusion

While there are several animals that may be responsible for eating your tomato plants at night, there are steps you can take to prevent this damage. By installing a fence around your garden, making your garden less attractive to animals, and using netting or a motion-activated sprinkler, you can enjoy ripe and delicious tomatoes without the worry of animal damage.