Does Groundhogs Eat Tomato Plants?

Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are members of the rodent family and are native to North America. They are known for their burrowing habits and their love for garden vegetables. Gardeners all over the country have had to deal with groundhog damage to their gardens, and one of the questions that often comes up is whether groundhogs eat tomato plants.

What Do Groundhogs Eat?

Groundhogs are herbivores and mostly feed on plants. They have a varied diet that includes everything from grasses and clovers to vegetables and fruits. Their favorite foods include alfalfa, dandelions, beans, peas, carrots, and lettuce. Groundhogs usually feed early in the morning and late in the afternoon, and they can eat up to one-third of their body weight in a single day.

Do Groundhogs Eat Tomato Plants?

Yes, groundhogs do eat tomato plants. Tomatoes are one of the vegetables that groundhogs love to eat, along with other garden vegetables. Groundhogs are known for their love of fresh, succulent greens, and tomato plants fit the bill perfectly.

When groundhogs eat tomato plants, they usually start with the leaves and then move on to the stems and fruit. They can quickly destroy an entire tomato plant if they are not prevented from doing so.

How to Keep Groundhogs Away from Tomato Plants

There are several ways to keep groundhogs away from tomato plants. One of the most effective methods is to install a physical barrier around the garden. This can be a fence made of metal or plastic, or a mesh netting that is stretched over the garden. The barrier should be at least 3 feet high and extend a foot into the ground to prevent groundhogs from digging under it.

Another effective method is to use repellents. There are various types of repellents available on the market that can be sprayed on tomato plants or placed around the garden. These repellents contain ingredients that groundhogs find unpleasant, such as garlic or predator urine.

Finally, you can also use traps to catch groundhogs and relocate them to a new location. This method should only be used as a last resort, as it can be dangerous and may not be legal in all areas. It is important to check with your local wildlife authorities before attempting to trap groundhogs.

Conclusion

Groundhogs are herbivores and love to eat fresh garden vegetables, including tomato plants. If you want to keep them away from your tomato plants, you can install a physical barrier, use repellents, or consider trapping and relocating them. By taking these steps, you can protect your garden and enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, delicious tomatoes.