Do Possums Eat Tomato Plants?

Possums are known for being opportunistic feeders and will eat almost anything that they can find. However, many tomato growers wonder whether these creatures will eat their tomato plants. Here’s what you should know about possums and their relationship with tomato plants.

The Possum’s Diet

Possums are found primarily in North America and are omnivorous creatures. Their diet typically consists of small animals such as bugs, snails, rodents, and other small mammals. Additionally, they also eat vegetables, plants, and fruits like apples and berries. This means that they could potentially eat your tomato plants if they are hungry enough.

Why Possums Are Attracted to Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are juicy and tasty fruits that are high in sugar content. This can make them desirable to possums who are constantly looking for new sources of food. Once a possum discovers a good food source, it is likely to return to the same spot each night to feed, making your tomato plants a prime target.

How to Protect Your Tomato Plants from Possums

If you’re concerned about possums eating your tomato plants, there are a few things that you can do. The first step is to make sure that your plants are healthy and in good condition. Healthy plants are less susceptible to pests, which means that they will be less attractive to possums.

You can also protect your tomato plants by placing a wire mesh around them. This will help to keep possums from being able to reach the plants and eat them. Additionally, you can try using a possum deterrent spray around your garden to help keep these creatures away from your plants.

Conclusion

While possums may not always eat tomato plants, they are still a potential threat to your garden. By taking steps to protect your plants, you can ensure that they are healthy and flourishing throughout the growing season. Whether you opt for a wire mesh or possum deterrent spray, remember to always be vigilant in monitoring your garden and identifying any potential threats to your plants.