Will Groundhogs Eat My Tomato Plants?

For many gardeners, the thought of a groundhog feasting on their prized tomato plants can be a nightmare. Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are notorious for their ability to devour just about anything in a garden, and tomatoes are no exception. So, if you're wondering whether groundhogs will eat your tomato plants, the answer is yes – they probably will.

Why Groundhogs Love Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a favorite food of groundhogs because they're sweet and juicy, which appeals to their taste buds. In fact, groundhogs will often eat the entire tomato plant, from the leaves and stems to the fruit itself. This can result in a complete loss of your tomato crop, which can be especially frustrating for gardeners who have put in a lot of time and effort to grow their tomatoes.

How to Protect Your Tomato Plants from Groundhogs

Fortunately, there are several ways to protect your tomato plants from groundhogs. One of the most effective methods is to install a physical barrier around your garden. This can be a fence or a mesh netting that is buried at least a foot deep in the ground to prevent groundhogs from burrowing underneath it.

You can also try using repellents to keep groundhogs away from your garden. There are many different types of repellents available, including those made with predator urine, hot peppers, or garlic. These can be applied directly to your tomato plants or sprayed around the perimeter of your garden.

Another option is to trap and relocate the groundhogs. This should only be done by experienced wildlife removal professionals, as it can be dangerous and illegal in some areas. However, if done properly, trapping and relocating groundhogs can be an effective way to protect your tomato plants without harming the animals.

Other Tips for Protecting Your Garden from Groundhogs

While protecting your tomato plants from groundhogs is important, it's also essential to take steps to prevent groundhogs from entering your garden in the first place. Here are some other tips to keep in mind:

Remove any sources of food or shelter that may attract groundhogs, such as piles of brush or debris.

Keep your garden clean and tidy to avoid providing groundhogs with places to hide or burrow.

Install motion-activated sprinklers, which can startle and deter groundhogs from entering your garden.

Consider planting companion plants that repel groundhogs, such as marigolds or garlic.

By taking these steps, you can help to protect your garden from groundhogs and other garden pests, allowing you to enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious and healthy fruits and vegetables.