How to Keep Squirrels Away from Tomato Plants

Squirrels are active and playful animals that can cause serious damage to your tomato plants. They love to dig up roots and chew on leaves, flowers, and fruits, leaving behind a trail of destruction. Fortunately, there are several ways to keep squirrels away from your precious tomato crop.

1. Use Physical Barriers

One of the most effective ways to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants is by using physical barriers such as netting or cages. Cover your plants with a fine mesh netting or place a cage around them to prevent squirrels from getting to them. Ensure that the netting or cage is securely fixed to the ground to prevent squirrels from digging their way in.

2. Distract Squirrels with Food

Another way to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants is by providing them with an alternative source of food. You can feed squirrels with nuts, fruits, or vegetables away from your tomato plants to distract them from your crop. Ensure that you place the food far away from your garden to avoid attracting other pests.

3. Use Squirrel Repellents

Squirrel repellents are another way to keep these furry creatures away from your tomato plants. There are several types of repellents available in the market, including sprays, granules, and spikes. However, it's important to note that not all repellents are effective, and some may contain harmful chemicals that can harm your plants or pets. Research and choose a safe and effective repellent for your garden.

4. Plant Squirrel-Resistant Varieties

You can also plant squirrel-resistant tomato varieties to avoid attracting squirrels to your garden. Specifically, choose varieties with firmer skin or thicker leaves, as they are less attractive to squirrels. Some squirrel-resistant tomato varieties include Roma, San Marzano, and Amish Paste.

5. Remove Attractive Scents or Tastes

Squirrels are attracted to the scent and taste of certain plants. Therefore, you can keep squirrels away from your tomato plants by using certain substances that can mask or repel the attractive scent or taste. These substances can include cayenne pepper, peppermint oil, or garlic spray. Simply sprinkle them around your tomato plants or spray them directly on the plants. Be sure to test out the amount for effectiveness without doing too much too quickly, to avoid problems with the tomato plants themselves.

Conclusion

Overall, keeping squirrels away from your tomato plants requires some effort and creativity. By using physical barriers, distracting the squirrels with food, using squirrel repellents, planting squirrel-resistant varieties of tomato plants, and removing attractive scents or tastes, you can keep these pesky critters at bay and enjoy a bountiful harvest of tomatoes.