Will Gophers Eat Tomato Plants

Gophers are small burrowing rodents known for their destructive nature. They can be found in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Gophers have a voracious appetite, and they are known to eat a wide variety of plants, including tomatoes. However, the question remains: will gophers eat tomato plants?

The Diet of Gophers

Gophers are herbivores, which means they primarily feed on plants. Some of the plants that gophers commonly eat include roots, tubers, bulbs, and woody vegetation. They are also known to eat leaves, stems, and flowers. Some of the plants that gophers are particularly fond of include alfalfa, clover, dandelions, and grasses.

Do Gophers Eat Tomato Plants?

Yes, gophers can and will eat tomato plants. In fact, tomato plants are one of the many plants that gophers will eat if given the opportunity. The root system and foliage of tomato plants are particularly attractive to gophers. If you live in an area where gophers are common, you may need to take precautions to protect your tomato plants from being eaten.

Preventing Gophers from Eating Your Tomato Plants

There are a few steps you can take to prevent gophers from eating your tomato plants. One option is to install wire mesh around the perimeter of your garden. This will create a barrier that gophers are unable to penetrate. Another option is to plant your tomato plants in large pots that are buried in the ground. This will make it more difficult for gophers to access the roots of your tomato plants.

You can also try using repellents to keep gophers away from your tomato plants. Some natural repellents that have been known to work include castor oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. These repellents can be sprinkled around your garden to create a barrier that gophers are hesitant to cross. You can also try using commercial repellents that are designed specifically for deterring gophers.

Conclusion

Gophers can and will eat tomato plants if given the opportunity. However, there are steps you can take to prevent gophers from eating your tomato plants. By installing wire mesh, planting your tomato plants in pots, or using repellents, you can protect your tomato plants and enjoy a bountiful harvest.