How to Keep Animals Away From Tomato Plants

Growing tomato plants in your garden is a great way to enjoy fresh, juicy tomatoes all summer long. Unfortunately, birds, squirrels, rabbits, and other animals love tomatoes just as much as we do. To prevent animals from feasting on your tomato plants, here are some effective methods you can try:

1. Install Fencing

Building a fence is a great way to keep animals out of your garden. You can install a fence made of wire mesh, chicken wire, or plastic mesh to block off the tomato plants. The fence should be at least three feet tall and buried several inches into the ground to prevent animals from digging underneath it. Be sure to secure the fence with sturdy stakes or posts to keep animals from pushing it over.

2. Use Repellents

There are several types of repellents you can use to keep animals away from your tomato plants. Spray repellents, such as predator urine, hot pepper spray, or garlic spray, can be applied directly to the tomato plants to deter animals from eating them. You can also use granular repellents, such as blood meal, bone meal, or dried blood, which can be sprinkled around the base of the tomato plants. These repellents are effective because they give off a smell that animals find unpleasant.

3. Scare Animals Away

Hanging shiny objects, such as strips of aluminum foil or CDs, can be an effective way to scare off birds and other animals. You can also use motion-activated sprinklers, which spray water at the animals when they come near the tomato plants. Another option is to place scarecrows near the plants to create the appearance of a human presence, which can deter animals from approaching.

4. Cover the Tomato Plants

If all else fails, you can cover the tomato plants with protective netting, mesh, or cloth. This will physically block animals from reaching the plants and can be removed when the tomatoes are ripe. Make sure the cover is taut so that animals can't pull it down and reach the plants. You can also use cages made of wire mesh to protect individual tomato plants.

Tomato plants are susceptible to damage from animals, but these methods can help you keep them safe and healthy. By installing fencing, using repellents, scaring animals away, or covering the plants, you can enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest without having to share your harvest with unwelcome visitors.