Do Voles Eat Tomato Plants?

Tomato plants are a popular addition to any garden or farm, but gardeners often face the problem of pests destroying their hard work. Voles are one of the rodents that can cause significant damage to tomato plants. So, do voles eat tomato plants? Let's explore this question in more detail.

What are voles?

Voles are small, mouse-like rodents that belong to the family Microtidae. They are about 3-9 inches long with a short tail and round body. Voles have a brown or gray fur and they are commonly found in grassy areas or woodland habitats.

Do voles eat tomato plants?

Unfortunately, voles do eat tomato plants. Voles are herbivores, and they feed on a wide range of plants, including tomatoes. They typically eat the roots and stems of the plant, which can cause significant damage and even kill the plant.

How to identify vole damage on tomato plants?

Identifying vole damage on tomato plants can be tricky, as it can be mistaken for damage caused by other pests or environmental factors. Some signs of vole damage include:

Chewed roots or stems of the tomato plant

Gnawing marks on the base of the plant

Unexplained wilting, yellowing or stunted growth of the plant

How to protect tomato plants from voles?

Fortunately, there are several ways to protect tomato plants from voles. Here are some effective methods:

Install a physical barrier: A wire mesh or hardware cloth can be placed around the base of the tomato plant to prevent voles from reaching it

Planting Raised Beds: Planting tomato plants in raised beds can help keep voles away as they prefer soft ground

Repellent: Using an organic repellent such as Gopher & Mole Repellent can deter voles from your garden

Natural Predators: Owls, hawks, and snakes can be attracted to your garden to help control vole populations

Conclusion

In conclusion, voles can cause significant damage to tomato plants. They are herbivores and will feed on the roots and stems of the plant. It is important to take preventative measures to protect your plants from vole damage. Using physical barriers, planting in raised beds, using repellents, attracting natural predators, and being vigilant to signs of damage can all help to protect your tomato plants from voles.