Will Chipmunks Eat My Tomato Plants?

As a tomato plant owner, it's natural to worry about animals destroying your precious crop. One of the animals that often cause concern for tomato plant owners is chipmunks. These cute little rodents are notorious for eating anything and everything, so it's understandable to be worried about them munching on your tomato plants.

What Do Chipmunks Eat?

Chipmunks are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals. Their diet includes nuts, seeds, berries, insects, and even small rodents. This wide spectrum of food options may lead you to believe that they will inevitably eat your tomato plants, but that's not necessarily the case.

Do Chipmunks Eat Tomatoes?

While chipmunks may have a diverse diet, tomatoes aren't usually at the top of their list. Chipmunks have a preference for foods that are high in fat and protein, which is why they tend to go for nuts and insects. Tomatoes, on the other hand, are low in both fat and protein, so they are less appealing to chipmunks. This doesn't mean that chipmunks will never eat your tomatoes, but it's less likely than other foods.

How to Protect Your Tomato Plants from Chipmunks

Even though chipmunks may not be the biggest threat to your tomato plants, it's still important to take precautions to protect your crop. One way to do this is to use physical barriers around your plants. For example, you can install a wire mesh fence around your garden to keep chipmunks out. Another option is to cover your tomato plants with bird netting, which will prevent chipmunks and other animals from getting to your tomatoes.

If physical barriers aren't practical, there are other tactics you can try. For instance, you can use certain plants or herbs that chipmunks dislike as a natural repellent. Examples of these plants and herbs include garlic, marigolds, and alliums. You can also try using predator urine, like coyote or fox urine, as a deterrent. Spraying plants with hot pepper spray or vinegar may also deter chipmunks, as they don't like the taste or smell.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while chipmunks may eat tomatoes on occasion, they are not a major threat to your tomato plants. However, it's still a good idea to take measures to protect your crop from all animals, including chipmunks. Physical barriers, natural repellents, and deterrent sprays are all excellent options to keep your tomato plants safe and ensure a bountiful harvest.