What Animal Eats Young Tomato Plants?

If you are a gardener, you know that it can be frustrating to see your young tomato plants get eaten by critters. There are several animals that could be responsible for this, including rabbits, deer, squirrels, and even birds. Let's take a closer look at each of these culprits and what you can do to protect your tomato plants.

Rabbits

Rabbits are a common garden pest that love to eat tender young shoots and leaves. They typically nibble away at the edges of the leaves, leaving a telltale pattern of bite marks. If you suspect that rabbits are the culprits, you can try putting up a fence around your garden or using rabbit repellent sprays.

Deer

Deer are another common culprit when it comes to young tomato plants. They love to munch on anything green and tender, including your tomato leaves and stems. If you are seeing signs of deer damage in your garden, you may want to consider using deer repellent or installing a fence around your garden.

Squirrels

Squirrels may seem harmless, but they can be quite destructive in the garden. They are known to dig up young plants and eat both the leaves and the fruit. If you suspect that squirrels are eating your tomato plants, you can try using squirrel repellent or covering your plants with netting to keep them out.

Birds

Birds can also be a problem when it comes to young tomato plants. They may peck at the fruit or eat the leaves, causing significant damage to your plants. You can try using bird netting or a scarecrow to keep them away from your garden.

Overall, there are several animals that could be responsible for eating your young tomato plants. By identifying the culprit and taking steps to protect your plants, you can ensure a bountiful tomato harvest.