Do Chipmunks Bother Tomato Plants?

Chipmunks are cute and amusing to watch as they scurry around your garden, but they can also cause damage by digging up your plants or stealing your vegetables. But do chipmunks bother tomato plants specifically?

Understanding Chipmunks

Before we dive into the answer to this question, let's first understand a few things about chipmunks. They are small, furry rodents that are commonly found in North America. They are active during the day and are primarily herbivores, with most of their diet consisting of seeds, nuts, fruits, and vegetables.

Chipmunks and Tomato Plants

The answer to whether or not chipmunks bother tomato plants is yes, they can. Chipmunks are known to dig up newly planted tomato seedlings in search of food, and they can also climb onto tomato plants to eat the fruit.

Additionally, chipmunks can indirectly cause damage to tomato plants by digging holes around the base of the plant, which can weaken and even kill the plant. They may also chew on the plant stem or leaves in search of moisture.

Preventing Chipmunk Damage

Fortunately, there are a few ways to prevent chipmunk damage to your tomato plants. One effective method is to use physical barriers such as wire mesh or chicken wire to enclose your garden. This can prevent chipmunks from entering your garden in the first place.

You can also try spraying a deterrent around your tomato plants, such as a mixture of garlic and water. Chipmunks have a keen sense of smell and may be deterred by the strong odor. Additionally, planting other plants around your tomato plants that chipmunks don't like, such as marigolds or garlic, can also help keep them away.

Finally, you can try using humane traps to catch and release chipmunks away from your garden. Just be sure to check your local regulations regarding trapping and releasing animals before attempting this method.

In Conclusion

Although chipmunks can be cute and entertaining, they can also cause damage to your tomato plants. By using physical barriers, deterrents, and planting other plants that they don't like, you can prevent chipmunk damage and protect your tomato plants.

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to dealing with chipmunks in your garden. By taking proactive steps, you can ensure that your tomato plants thrive and produce a plentiful harvest.