What Animals Will Eat My Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are a popular and versatile fruit that are enjoyed by humans and animals alike. Unfortunately, many animals view tomato plants as a tasty snack. Knowing which animals are likely to eat your tomato plants can help you take preventative measures to protect your crop.

Rabbits

Rabbits are known to be particularly fond of tomato plants. These cute and furry animals can quickly decimate a tomato crop if left unchecked. Rabbits will eat both the leaves and fruit of tomato plants, which can lead to stunted growth, decreased yields, and even death for the plant.

To protect your tomato plants from rabbits, try to limit their access to your garden. You can do this by building a fence around your garden or by using repellents that are specifically designed to deter rabbits. Additionally, you may want to consider planting your tomato plants in raised beds or containers that are more difficult for rabbits to access.

Deer

Deer are another common culprit when it comes to tomato plant damage. These graceful creatures are often seen wandering through gardens in search of a tasty meal. Deer will eat both the leaves and fruit of tomato plants, which can lead to decreased yields and stunted growth.

To protect your tomato plants from deer, consider building a fence around your garden or using repellents that are designed to keep deer away. Additionally, you may want to choose tomato plant varieties that are less palatable to deer.

Squirrels

Squirrels are known for their love of nuts, but they are also known to enjoy snacking on tomato plants. These agile animals can quickly climb tomato plants and will often steal cherry tomatoes right off of the vine. Squirrels can cause damage to both the leaves and fruit of tomato plants.

To protect your tomato plants from squirrels, try to limit their access to your garden. You can do this by using tree guards around your tomato plants or by using repellents that are specifically designed to deter squirrels. Additionally, you may want to consider planting your tomato plants in raised beds or containers that are out of reach of squirrels.

Birds

Birds are another common predator of tomato plants. These feathered friends are often attracted to the bright colors of tomato plants and will frequently peck holes in the fruit. Birds can cause significant damage to tomato plants, which can lead to decreased yields and stunted growth.

To protect your tomato plants from birds, consider using bird netting or covering your tomato plants with a protective cloth. Additionally, you may want to choose tomato plant varieties that are less attractive to birds.

Insects

Insects are often overlooked as a threat to tomato plants, but they can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Insects such as aphids, silverleaf whiteflies, and spider mites can all cause damage to tomato plants. These pests will suck the sap from the plant and can cause decreased yields and stunted growth.

To protect your tomato plants from insects, consider using a pesticide or insecticide that is safe for use on tomato plants. Additionally, you may want to choose tomato plant varieties that are more resistant to insect damage.

Conclusion

Tomato plants are a delicious and nutritious crop that is enjoyed by many animals. Unfortunately, many of these animals view tomato plants as a tasty snack. By knowing which animals are likely to eat your tomato plants, you can take preventative measures to protect your crop. Whether you're building a fence around your garden, using repellents, or choosing resistant plant varieties, there are many ways to protect your tomato plants from hungry predators.