Do Yard Animals Eat Tomatoes Off Your Plants?

Tomatoes are a staple in many gardens, but unfortunately, they are also a popular snack for many yard animals. In this article, we will explore some of the common yard animals that might eat tomatoes off your plants and what you can do to prevent them.

Raccoons

Raccoons are notorious for their love of tomatoes. These nocturnal creatures will feast on your tomato plants, leaving big bites and claw marks on the remaining fruit. To deter raccoons, try putting up a motion-activated light or sprinkler system. Raccoons are nocturnal, so these types of deterrents are often effective in scaring them away.

Squirrels

Squirrels are another common culprit when it comes to tomatoes. These little critters are experts at climbing and jumping, so placing a fence around your garden may not be enough to stop them. One option is to use bird netting over your tomato plants, which can help keep squirrels from getting to them. Alternatively, you could try putting out food that squirrels love, such as sunflower seeds or peanuts, somewhere else in your yard to distract them from your tomato plants.

Deer

If you live in an area with deer, you may find that they love to feast on your tomato plants. Deer are known for their ability to jump high fences, so protective barriers may not be enough to keep them out. One option is to try planting other plants that deer don't like, such as herbs or garlic, around your tomato plants. Alternatively, you could try using deer repellent sprays or hanging bars of soap around your garden as a deterrent.

Rabbits

Rabbits are another yard animal that might be munching on your tomato plants. These cute little creatures can wreak havoc on your garden, leaving small bites and holes in your tomatoes. To keep rabbits away, try putting up a fence around your garden. You could also try planting marigolds or other plants that rabbits don't like around your tomato plants as a deterrent.

Conclusion

Tomatoes are a delicious and nutritious addition to any garden, but they are also a popular snack for many yard animals. If you're having trouble with animals eating your tomatoes, try some of the suggestions in this article to deter them. With some patience and persistence, you can enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest without sharing with the local wildlife.