How to Keep Squirrels Out of Potted Plants

Squirrels are cute and fun to watch, but they can be a real nuisance when it comes to potted plants. These little rodents love digging in the soil, chewing on leaves, and even eating fruits and vegetables. If you're a gardener, you may have struggled with keeping squirrels out of your potted plants. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to keep these critters away.

1. Use Physical Barriers

One effective way to keep squirrels out of your potted plants is to use physical barriers. You can cover your pots with wire mesh or plastic netting that will prevent squirrels from digging up the soil or getting to the plant. Make sure the barrier is tall enough to deter squirrels from jumping over it. You can also use a wrap-around wire squirrel baffle to prevent them from climbing up the pot.

2. Repel with Smells

Squirrels have a strong sense of smell, so you can use certain smells to repel them from your potted plants. Some of the things that squirrels dislike include garlic, pepper, and vinegar. You can make a spray by mixing water with these ingredients and spraying it on your plants. You can also sprinkle these smells around your pots to create a natural barrier that will keep squirrels away. Keep in mind that you may need to reapply the spray or sprinkles on a regular basis to keep the scent strong.

3. Use Sound to Deter Squirrels

Another way to keep squirrels out of your potted plants is to use sound to deter them. You can use a motion-activated ultrasonic device that emits a high-pitched sound when squirrels approach your plants. This sound is too high for humans to hear, but it will scare squirrels away. You can also use wind chimes or other noise makers to keep squirrels away from your potted plants.

4. Plant Squirrel-Resistant Plants

If you're tired of dealing with squirrels in your potted plants, you can consider planting squirrel-resistant plants. Some of the plants that squirrels dislike include marigolds, daffodils, and alliums. These plants have a strong smell or taste that will keep squirrels away. You can also try planting herbs like mint and sage, which squirrels don't like to eat. By planting these types of plants, you can create a natural barrier that will keep squirrels from digging up your potted plants.

5. Feed Squirrels Away From Your Plants

If you have a squirrel problem in your garden, one way to keep them away from your potted plants is to provide them with an alternative food source. You can put out bird feeders or squirrel feeders away from your pots. This will give squirrels a place to eat without disturbing your plants. You can also try putting out nuts or seeds that squirrels like to eat. This will help keep them away from your potted plants.

In conclusion, keeping squirrels out of your potted plants can be a challenge, but it's not impossible. By using physical barriers, smells, sound, squirrel-resistant plants, and alternative food sources, you can create a garden that is squirrel-free. Try experimenting with different methods to see what works best for you and your plants. With a little effort and creativity, you can keep these cute little critters from munching on your garden.