How to Keep Racoons Out of Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables (or fruits) to grow in your garden, but they can also be a magnet for raccoons. Raccoons love to snack on ripe tomatoes and can quickly demolish your entire crop. Here are some tips on how to keep raccoons out of your tomato plants:

1. Use a Fence

A physical barrier is the most effective way to keep raccoons out of your garden. A sturdy fence that is at least 4 feet tall should do the job. Dig a trench around the perimeter of your garden and bury the fence at least 12 inches deep. This will prevent raccoons from burrowing under the fence. Make sure the fence is tight and has no gaps or holes that a raccoon could squeeze through.

2. Scare Them Away

Another effective way to deter raccoons is to scare them away. Place motion-activated lights or a radio near your tomato plants. Raccoons are nocturnal animals, and they prefer to feed in the dark. Bright light may scare them away. Loud noises or human voices can also be effective, so consider placing a speaker near your garden and playing talk radio or podcasts loudly.

3. Use Repellents

There are many commercial repellents on the market that are designed to keep raccoons away from your garden. These products typically contain natural ingredients, such as predator urine or hot pepper extract. Spray the repellent around your garden or directly onto your tomato plants. The smell or taste may deter raccoons from feasting on your crop.

4. Install Netting

Netting can be an effective way to keep raccoons out of your tomato plants. Cover your plants with a fine mesh netting that has holes no larger than one inch. Make sure the netting is securely attached to the ground so raccoons can't crawl under it. This method can be particularly effective if you have only a few tomato plants in your garden.

5. Harvest Tomatoes Early

If all else fails, consider harvesting your tomatoes early. Raccoons are attracted to ripe, juicy tomatoes. If you pick your tomatoes when they are still green or just starting to turn red, you may be able to avoid attracting raccoons to your garden. This may not be the most desirable solution, but it can be an effective way to save your crop.

Conclusion

Raccoons can be a major nuisance in your garden, but with a little effort, you can keep them away from your tomato plants. Use a fence or netting, scare them away with loud noises or lights, use repellents, or harvest your tomatoes early. By taking these steps, you can enjoy a bountiful tomato crop without worrying about raccoons destroying your hard work.