How to Keep Birds from Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are a popular fruit that is widely grown in home gardens. However, birds can be a real challenge for tomato growers. They love to peck at the fruits and can cause significant damage. By following these simple tips, you can keep birds away from your tomato plants and protect your harvest.

1. Use Bird Netting

Bird netting is a simple and effective way to keep birds away from your tomato plants. The netting can be easily draped over the plants and secured in place with garden stakes or clips. The holes in the netting are just big enough to allow sunlight and rain to reach the plants but small enough to keep birds out. The netting should be installed as soon as the tomato plants start to produce fruit.

2. Install Scare Devices

Scare devices are another option for keeping birds away from your tomato plants. These devices work by intimidating birds and convincing them to stay away from your plants. Some common scare devices include hanging reflective tape, installing bird scare balloons or flags, and placing fake owls or snakes near the plants.

3. Create a Physical Barrier

You can also create a physical barrier around your tomato plants to keep birds away. This can be done by building a simple frame around the plant and covering it with chicken wire or mesh. The barrier should be at least two feet high to keep birds from flying over it. Additionally, you can create a barrier around each individual tomato plant by placing a mesh cage over the plant.

4. Use Bird Repellent Sprays

Bird repellent sprays are a chemical option for deterring birds from your tomato plants. These sprays contain natural or synthetic compounds that are unpleasant to birds, but harmless to plants and humans. The sprays should be applied directly to the plants and reapplied after rain or irrigation.

5. Plant Companion Plants

Planting companion plants around your tomato plants can also help to keep birds away. Birds are less likely to approach tomato plants that are surrounded by other plants. Some good companion plants for tomatoes include marigolds, borage, and basil.

Conclusion

Tomatoes are a delicious and nutritious fruit to grow in your home garden. However, birds can be a major pest for gardeners. By using bird netting, scare devices, physical barriers, bird repellent sprays, and companion plants, you can keep birds away from your tomato plants and protect your harvest. With a little effort and creativity, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of tomatoes without any interference from birds.