Do Gophers Eat Tomato Plant Roots?

Gophers are infamous pests that can cause immense damage to gardens and crops. Tomato plants are not immune to their voracious appetites. In this article, we will explore the reasons why gophers target tomato plant roots and how to prevent them from doing so.

Gopher Behaviour

Gophers are burrowing rodents that inhabit vast areas of North America. They are known for their habitual digging habits, which can cause a great deal of damage to plants and lawns. These creatures are herbivores that feed on the roots of various plants, including vegetables, shrubs, and trees.

Gophers are known for their sharp teeth and strong jaws, which allow them to gnaw on the roots of plants without any issue. When they burrow underground, they sever the roots of plants, causing them to wither and die. This type of damage is often difficult to detect until it is too late.

Why Do Gophers Target Tomato Plant Roots?

Gophers target tomato plants for several reasons. First, they are attracted to the juicy, nutrient-rich roots of tomato plants. Second, they enjoy the shelter provided by the dense foliage of tomato plants. Finally, gophers are attracted to the smell of tomato plant roots, which can be quite fragrant.

Tomato plants are especially vulnerable to gopher damage because they have shallow roots. Gophers typically burrow close to the surface of the soil, which means that they can easily access the roots of tomato plants. Once they begin to feed on the roots, the plant will quickly begin to decline.

Preventing Gopher Damage to Tomato Plants

If you have a garden, it is important to take preventative measures to protect your plants from gopher damage. Here are a few tips:

Plant tomatoes in raised beds or containers.

Encircle the base of the raised bed or container with hardware cloth or chicken wire. This will prevent gophers from burrowing into the bed from below.

Install underground barriers around the perimeter of the garden. These can be made from a variety of materials, including mesh and screens.

Put up fencing to keep out larger animals that might dig up the gophers for you.

By taking these preventive measures, you can successfully minimize the damage that gophers can cause to your tomato plants. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to keeping your garden healthy and thriving.

Conclusion

Gophers can be a real headache for gardeners, but by understanding their behaviour and taking preventive steps, you can protect your tomato plants and other favourite crops from damage. If you suspect gophers are causing issues, make sure to act quickly and take appropriate steps to protect your plants. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your garden flourishing and healthy, even in the presence of these pesky rodents.