How to Keep Raccoons Away from Tomato Plants

Raccoons can be a big problem for gardeners who grow tomatoes. These curious and clever animals love to dig up and eat the fruit, often leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to keep raccoons away from your tomato plants and protect your harvest.

1. Build a Fence

One of the most effective ways to keep raccoons away from your tomato plants is to build a fence around your garden. Use a wire mesh fence that is at least 3 feet high and bury it at least 6 inches deep in the ground to prevent raccoons from digging under it. Make sure the fence is sturdy and secure, and consider adding an electric wire or two to deter raccoons from climbing over it.

2. Install Motion-Activated Lights and Sound Devices

Raccoons are nocturnal animals, which means they are most active at night. Installing motion-activated lights and sound devices in your garden can help to scare raccoons away. Choose lights and sound devices that produce bright flashes and loud noises when triggered, as this will startle raccoons and make them think twice about entering your garden. Just be sure to position the lights and devices in a way that won't disturb your neighbors.

3. Use Repellents

There are several types of repellents you can use to keep raccoons away from your tomato plants. Some gardeners swear by using hot pepper spray or crushed garlic, as the strong smell and taste can repel raccoons. You can also try using commercial repellent sprays, which usually contain a chemical called capsaicin that is derived from hot peppers. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid spraying the repellent directly on your tomato plants, as this can damage them.

4. Eliminate Water Sources

Raccoons need water to survive, so if you have a water source in your garden, such as a bird bath or pond, you could be attracting them. Try to eliminate any standing water sources in or near your garden, and consider providing water in a different location away from your tomato plants.

5. Harvest Your Tomatoes Early

Finally, if all else fails, consider harvesting your tomatoes early. Raccoons are attracted to ripe fruit, so picking your tomatoes before they are fully ripe can reduce the likelihood of raccoons coming to your garden. You can then ripen your tomatoes indoors or in a protected area.

By following these steps, you can keep raccoons away from your tomato plants and enjoy a bountiful harvest. Remember to be patient and persistent, as it may take a combination of these methods to effectively deter raccoons.