What Stops Animals from Digging up Potted Plants?

Many gardeners who love decorating their patios and balconies with potted plants occasionally experience animals digging up their beloved plants. It can be very frustrating to wake up to find your potted plants disturbed or destroyed by cats, squirrels, gophers, or other animals. Fortunately, there are several ways to stop these unwanted visitors and keep your potted plants safe and healthy.

Use a Physical Barrier

A physical barrier is an effective way to keep animals away from your potted plants. You can cover the soil of your potted plants with a layer of smooth rocks, pebbles, or chicken wire. Another option is to elevate your potted plants on a high stand or rack that the animals cannot reach or climb onto. This way, the animals will not have access to the soil in your potted plants and will not be able to dig them up.

Use Repellents

Repellents are substances that deter animals from digging up and damaging potted plants. There are various types of repellents on the market, including natural and chemical repellents. Natural repellents include spicy peppers, garlic, and vinegar. You can mix these natural repellents with water and spray them around the area where you have potted plants. Chemical repellents contain synthetic substances that have strong smells, taste, or irritants that animals do not like. These repellents come in various forms, such as sprays, granules, or liquids, and are available at garden centers and hardware stores.

Create a Distraction

Cats are known to be fond of digging up potted plants, especially those with loose soil. You can create a distraction by filling another container or tray with loose soil or sand to give cats an alternative place to dig. Place the container near your potted plants and add some toys or treats on top to attract the cats to the new spot. This way, the cats will be less likely to dig up your potted plants and will be diverted to the new area.

Use Sound Devices

Sound devices are another way to deter animals from digging up potted plants. These devices emit sounds that animals find unpleasant, such as ultrasonic noises, loud noises, or high pitched noises. Some sound devices also come with motion sensors that activate the sounds when animals are detected. Sound devices are particularly effective for deterring squirrels, gophers, and other burrowing animals that are known to damage potted plants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several effective ways to stop animals from digging up potted plants. You can use a physical barrier, repellents, distractions, or sound devices to keep your potted plants safe and healthy. It's essential to choose a method that matches the type of animal and the severity of the problem. With the right approach, you can prevent animals from destroying the beauty and tranquility of your potted garden.