What Will Keep Squirrels Away from Tomato Plants?

Squirrels are cute and friendly critters that are always fun to watch. But if you grow tomato plants in your garden, you know that squirrels can become a major problem. They love to nibble on tomatoes, and if you're not careful, they can destroy your entire crop. So, what can you do to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants? Here are some ideas.

Install a Squirrel-Proof Fence

One of the most effective ways to keep squirrels out of your garden is to install a squirrel-proof fence. A squirrel-proof fence is usually made of metal or plastic, and it's designed to be difficult for squirrels to climb over. If you're handy, you can make your own squirrel-proof fence using chicken wire, mesh, or other materials. Alternatively, you can purchase a pre-made squirrel-proof fence online or at your local garden store.

Use Repellents

Another way to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants is to use repellents. There are several types of repellents available on the market, including sprays, granules, and electronic devices. Sprays usually contain natural ingredients such as garlic, peppermint, or hot pepper, which squirrels find unpleasant. Granules are designed to be spread around the garden to repel squirrels. Electronic devices emit high-pitched sounds that squirrels can't stand.

Grow Squirrel-Resistant Tomato Varieties

If you're tired of dealing with squirrels in your garden, you might want to try growing squirrel-resistant tomato varieties. These tomatoes are less appealing to squirrels, so they're less likely to be eaten. Some popular squirrel-resistant tomato varieties include Black Cherry, Early Girl, and Cherokee Purple. You can find these varieties at your local garden store or online.

Protect Your Tomato Plants with Netting

Another way to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants is to protect them with netting. Netting is easy to install and can be used to cover tomato plants and keep squirrels from eating them. You can purchase netting at your local garden store or online. Just make sure to choose a netting that is strong and durable, so it can withstand the weight of squirrels.

Conclusion

Squirrels can be a major problem for tomato growers, but there are several ways to keep them away from your plants. You can install a squirrel-proof fence, use repellents, grow squirrel-resistant tomato varieties, or protect your plants with netting. Whatever method you choose, make sure to be consistent and persistent. With a little effort, you can enjoy a bumper crop of tomatoes without worrying about squirrels.