How to Keep Groundhogs from Eating My Tomato Plants

If you live in an area with groundhogs, you know how frustrating it can be to have them munching on your tomato plants. These animals can quickly cause damage to your garden and ruin a summer's worth of hard work. Luckily, there are several methods to keep groundhogs away from your tomato plants.

1. Install a Fence

The most effective way to keep groundhogs from eating your tomato plants is to install a fence around your entire garden. The fence should be at least three feet tall and should be anchored firmly into the ground. This will prevent groundhogs from burrowing underneath the fence and entering your garden. You can also attach chicken wire to the fence surrounding your garden to make it more difficult for groundhogs to climb over it.

2. Use Repellents

If you don't want to install a fence, you can use repellents to keep groundhogs away from your garden. One option is to sprinkle predator urine around the perimeter of your garden. Groundhogs are naturally fearful of predators, so the scent of urine can keep them away. Another option is to sprinkle cayenne pepper on and around your tomato plants. Groundhogs do not like the taste of cayenne pepper and will avoid eating plants that are coated in it.

3. Create a Deterrent

You can also create a deterrent for groundhogs by placing noise-making devices near your tomato plants. Wind chimes, aluminum pie plates, and even a radio playing can all help to deter groundhogs from entering your garden. Groundhogs are timid animals and will be scared off by these noises.

4. Remove Attractants

Finally, you can remove the attractants that are drawing the groundhogs to your garden in the first place. This includes removing any sources of food or shelter that groundhogs may be attracted to. For example, if you have piles of wood or debris near your garden, it may be time to clean them up. Additionally, you should avoid leaving pet food or birdseed outside, as groundhogs may be drawn to these sources of food.

In conclusion, there are several methods to keep groundhogs from eating your tomato plants. Whether you choose to install a fence or use repellents, it's important to take action as soon as you notice groundhogs in your garden. By doing so, you can protect your tomato plants and ensure a successful harvest.