Introduction

Tomatoes are a popular garden plant that produces a fruit that is frequently used in cooking. However, tomato plants are also susceptible to being eaten by a variety of animals. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the animals that eat tomato plants and how to prevent them from doing so.

Rabbits

Rabbits are common garden pests that will happily eat tomato plants, particularly when there is little other food available. The best way to prevent rabbits from eating your tomato plants is to install a fence around your garden that is at least two feet tall. You can also try using repellents such as wolf urine or cayenne pepper to deter rabbits from coming near your plants.

Deer

Deer are another animal that will gladly eat your tomato plants if given the opportunity. If you live in an area with a large deer population, it can be challenging to keep them away from your tomatoes. However, some methods that may help include planting tomatoes in a raised bed or container, using deer repellents like soap bars or human hair, or installing a fence that is at least eight feet tall.

Squirrels

Squirrels are notorious for stealing garden produce, and tomatoes are no exception. These little critters will eat both the fruit and the plant itself. To keep squirrels from eating your tomato plants, you can try using physical barriers like netting or bird mesh. You can also use scare tactics like fake owls or reflective surfaces to scare them away. Additionally, some gardeners recommend planting garlic or onions around your tomatoes since squirrels are repelled by the smell.

Hornworms

Hornworms are the larvae of a large moth and are a common pest of tomato plants. These caterpillars can quickly destroy a tomato plant by eating the leaves and stems. The best way to control hornworms is to handpick them off the plant and dispose of them. You can also try companion planting with plants like marigolds or basil, which are believed to repel hornworms.

Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails are another common pest that will eat your tomato plants. They typically feed on the leaves and stems of the plant and can quickly cause significant damage. To prevent slugs and snails from eating your tomato plants, you can try using copper tape around the base of the plant or applying diatomaceous earth around the plant. You can also handpick them off the plant and dispose of them.

Conclusion

Tomato plants are highly susceptible to being eaten by a variety of animals. If you want to protect your tomato plants, it's essential to identify the pests that are causing the problem and take appropriate action. Using physical barriers, repellents, and good gardening practices can help protect your tomato plants and ensure a bountiful harvest.