How to Keep Racoons Away From Tomato Plants

Racoons are notorious for their love of tomatoes, often sneaking into gardens and wreaking havoc on the tomato plants. If you're tired of racoons destroying your tomato harvest, here are some steps you can take to keep them away:

1. Secure Your Garden

The first step in keeping racoons away from your tomato plants is to ensure that your garden is secure. This means using a fence or other barrier to keep racoons out. Make sure the fence is at least six feet tall and extends several inches below ground level to prevent the racoons from digging under it. Additionally, make sure the fence is sturdy enough that the racoons can't knock it over.

2. Use Repellents

There are a variety of repellents you can use to keep racoons away from your tomato plants. Some people swear by using human hair or dog hair around the plants, as racoons are deterred by the smell. Others recommend using predator urine, such as coyote or fox urine, around the perimeter of your garden. You can also try using a commercial repellent specifically designed for racoons.

3. Install Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers

Racoons are nocturnal creatures, so installing motion-activated lights around your garden can be an effective deterrent. Similarly, you can install motion-activated sprinklers that will spray the racoons with water when they approach your tomato plants. This can startle them and keep them from coming back.

4. Pick Your Tomatoes Before They Ripen

If all else fails, you can try picking your tomatoes before they ripen. Racoons are attracted to fully ripe tomatoes, so if you harvest them early, the racoons may lose interest in your garden. Alternatively, you can try covering your tomato plants with netting or other protective material to keep the racoons from accessing them.

By taking these steps, you can keep racoons away from your beloved tomato plants and enjoy a bountiful harvest. Remember to be persistent and try different methods until you find what works best for your situation.