How to Keep Animals Out of My Potted Plants

There is nothing more frustrating than spending time and money on beautiful potted plants, only to discover that they have become a snack for local wildlife. Animals like squirrels, rabbits, and deer can be attracted to the scent and taste of your plants. Fortunately, there are several methods that you can use to keep animals out of your potted plants.

1. Choose Plants that Repel Animals

One of the best ways to prevent animals from eating your plants is to choose ones that have a scent or taste that repels them. Herbs like lavender, rosemary, and thyme are known to deter animals. You can also try planting marigolds or mint around the perimeter of your potted plants to keep animals away.

2. Use a Physical Barrier

If you live in an area with a lot of animals, using a physical barrier is an effective way to keep them out of your potted plants. You can use chicken wire or mesh netting to surround your plants. Another option is to place a fence around your entire yard or patio to keep animals out. Just be sure to choose a fence that is high enough to prevent animals from jumping over it.

3. Try Repellent Sprays

There are several commercial sprays available that are designed to repel animals from your plants. Most of these sprays use natural ingredients like garlic or peppermint oil to create a scent that animals find unpleasant. Before using a repellent spray, be sure to test it on a small area of your plant to make sure that it does not harm it.

4. Use Scare Tactics

Sometimes, scare tactics can be a helpful way to keep animals away from your potted plants. You can try hanging shiny objects like CDs or aluminum foil around your plants to create movement and reflection that scares animals away. You can also use motion-activated noise makers or sprinklers to startle animals when they approach your plants.

5. Place Plants Up High

One simple way to keep animals from eating your plants is to simply place them out of reach. Hang your potted plants from hooks or place them on high shelves to prevent animals like rabbits or deer from accessing them. If you have larger potted plants, you can raise them off the ground using a plant stand or pedestal.

In conclusion, there are several methods that you can use to keep animals out of your potted plants. By choosing plants that repel animals, using physical barriers, trying repellent sprays, using scare tactics, and placing plants up high, you can protect your plants and enjoy them for years to come.