How to Keep Birds Away from Your Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are a popular crop for many gardeners, but they can also attract a lot of pesky birds that can damage your plants and eat your produce. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies for keeping birds away from your tomato plants.

1. Use bird netting

One of the most effective ways to keep birds away from your tomato plants is to cover them with bird netting. This netting is made of a fine mesh that will prevent birds from accessing your plants and is available at most garden supply stores. Cut the netting to size and drape it over your plants, securing it in place with stakes or by burying the edges in the soil. This method is beneficial because it is inexpensive and can be reused for several years.

2. Implement bird scare tactics

Another option for keeping birds away from your tomato plants is to scare them away with visual or auditory tactics. This can include things like hanging shiny objects, such as CD’s or ribbons, near your plants to reflect sunlight and create a distraction for birds. You can also use a motion-activated sprinkler system that will spray water when birds come too close to your plants or play bird distress calls through a loudspeaker. These methods can be effective but may require more maintenance and upkeep than other options.

3. Provide alternative bird feeders

If you do not want to actively discourage birds from your garden, consider providing alternative bird feeders to give them another food source. Place these feeders away from your tomato plants but still in a visible area for birds to attract them away from your crops. This can be especially beneficial for attracting bird species that do not typically eat tomatoes.

4. Keep your garden clean

To prevent birds from being attracted to your tomato plants in the first place, make sure you keep your garden clean and free from debris. Birds can be attracted to gardens that are overgrown or have a lot of fallen leaves, which can hide insects and other food sources. Raking up leaves and keeping your garden tidy can help discourage birds from making a home in your garden.

5. Install birdhouse near your garden

Alternatively, you can attract bird species that do not typically eat tomatoes away from your garden by providing them with an alternative home. Install a birdhouse near your garden to encourage birds to nest nearby, where they can find food and shelter without being tempted by your tomato plants.

By using these strategies, you can protect your tomato plants from pesky birds and ensure a healthy and abundant crop for your harvest. Whether you choose to use bird netting, scare tactics, or provide alternative feeders or housing, keeping birds away from your garden is easy with just a few simple steps.