Will Squirrels Eat My Tomato Plants?

Tomato plants are a staple in many gardens, providing fresh and flavorful produce throughout the summer months. However, gardeners may run into issues with pests like squirrels, who can wreak havoc on their beloved tomato plants. So, the question remains – will squirrels eat your tomato plants? Let's take a closer look.

Squirrel Behavior

Squirrels are known for their bushy tails, cute and furry appearance, and their love for nuts. However, they're opportunistic feeders and will consume a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, and seeds. They're known to dig up bulbs, eat fruits and berries, and even chew on bark.

When it comes to tomato plants, squirrels are attracted to the delicious scent of ripening fruit. They'll often climb onto the plants to get a better angle and will take bites out of the tomatoes, which can cause significant damage to the plant.

Preventing Squirrel Damage

There are several ways to prevent squirrels from damaging your tomato plants:

Use Fencing: Fencing is an effective way to keep squirrels out of your garden. You can use chicken wire, hardware cloth, or other fencing material to create a barrier around your plants.

Use Repellents: There are many natural and chemical repellents available that can help keep squirrels away. These include hot pepper spray, predator urine, and even human hair. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and use them as directed.

Plant Companion Plants: Certain plants like marigolds, garlic, and onions are known to repel squirrels. Planting them alongside your tomato plants can help keep squirrels away.

Deterrents

If you've tried all the methods listed above and are still having trouble with squirrel damage, there are several other deterrents you can try:

Sonic Deterrents: Sonic deterrents emit high-pitched sounds that squirrels find unpleasant, so they'll stay away from the area.

Motion-Activated Sprinklers: Motion-activated sprinklers are a great way to scare squirrels away. They're equipped with sensors that detect movement and spray water in the direction of the movement, startling the squirrel and deterring them from returning.

Netting: Netting can be used to cover your tomato plants, making it difficult for squirrels to get to the fruit.

Conclusion

Squirrels can be a nuisance when it comes to your tomato plants. But, with a bit of effort and the right approach, you can prevent damage and enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest. Using fencing, repellents, companion plants, and deterrents like sonic devices and motion-activated sprinklers can all help keep squirrels away from your precious tomato plants. Try a few different methods and see what works best for you.