Introduction

Squirrels are cute little creatures that are loved by many, but they can also be a nuisance to gardeners. One common question that many gardeners have is whether or not squirrels eat tomato plants. In this article, we will explore this question in detail and provide you with some tips on how to protect your tomato plants from these furry little critters.

Do Squirrels Eat Tomato Plants?

Yes, squirrels do eat tomato plants. They are known to nibble on the leaves and fruit of tomato plants, which can cause damage and even kill the plant if the damage is severe enough. Squirrels are particularly attracted to ripe tomatoes, so if you have a few ripe tomatoes on your plant, you can expect squirrels to come sniffing around.

Why Do Squirrels Eat Tomato Plants?

Squirrels are omnivores and will eat just about anything they can get their little paws on. They are particularly attracted to sweet and savory foods, which is why they love ripe tomatoes, as well as other fruits and vegetables.

In addition to their love of sweet and savory foods, squirrels are also opportunistic eaters. This means that they will eat whatever food is available to them, including tomato plants. If you have a garden filled with delicious fruits and vegetables, squirrels will be happy to help themselves.

How to Protect Your Tomato Plants from Squirrels

There are several ways to protect your tomato plants from squirrels. Here are a few tips:

Use netting: Cover your tomato plants with netting to prevent squirrels from accessing the plants. Make sure that the netting is snug around the plant to prevent squirrels from getting in.

Use repellent: There are many natural and commercial repellents available that will keep squirrels away from your tomato plants. Some popular natural repellents include hot pepper, garlic, and cayenne pepper. Commercial repellents can also be effective, but make sure to read the label carefully to ensure that it is safe for your plants.

Plant mint: Squirrels are known to dislike the smell of mint, so planting mint around your tomato plants can help to keep them away.

Plant a distracting crop: Consider planting a crop that squirrels love, such as sunflowers or corn, away from your tomato plants. This will distract them and they may leave your tomato plants alone.

Use scare tactics: Squirrels are easily scared off by loud noises and sudden movements. Consider using scare tactics, such as wind chimes or sprinklers, to scare them away from your tomato plants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, squirrels do eat tomato plants, but there are many ways to protect your plants from these furry little critters. By using netting, repellents, planting mint, planting a distracting crop, and using scare tactics, you can keep squirrels away from your tomato plants and ensure a bountiful harvest. Happy gardening!