Introduction

Squirrels are cute creatures that can also be frustrating when they get into your garden and start eating your tomatoes. It's important to protect your tomato plants from them so that you can enjoy a bountiful harvest.

Identify Squirrel Damage

The first step in protecting your tomato plants from squirrels is to understand how they cause damage. Squirrels will often take a bite out of a tomato and then move on to the next one, leaving a trail of damaged fruit behind. They may also dig up newly planted seedlings or use your plants as a highway to get to bird feeders or other food sources.

Prevent Access to Your Garden

One way to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants is to prevent them from accessing your garden in the first place. This can be done by installing a fence around your garden or creating a physical barrier that squirrels cannot climb over or dig under. Netting or wire mesh can also be used to cover your tomato plants and protect them from squirrels.

Use Squirrel-Repellent Techniques

There are a few techniques that have been known to work as squirrel repellents. One is to sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper around your tomato plants. Squirrels dislike the smell and taste of these spices and will often leave the area. Another option is to use a commercial squirrel repellent that is designed to be sprayed on plants or applied around the perimeter of your garden.

Plant Squirrel-Resistant Varieties

If you are having ongoing issues with squirrels in your garden, it may be worth planting squirrel-resistant tomato varieties. These varieties have been bred to produce fruit that squirrels find less appealing or are more difficult for them to access. Some examples of squirrel-resistant tomato varieties include 'Cherokee Purple', 'Brandywine', and 'Green Zebra'.

Create a Squirrel Feeding Station

If all else fails, you can try creating a squirrel feeding station away from your tomato plants. This can be as simple as placing a squirrel feeder filled with food and nuts in a location that is easily accessible for squirrels, but away from your garden. This may help to distract squirrels from your tomato plants and keep them from causing damage.

Conclusion

By using these techniques and being persistent, you can keep squirrels away from your tomato plants and enjoy a bountiful harvest. Remember to identify squirrel damage, prevent access to your garden, use squirrel-repellent techniques, plant squirrel-resistant varieties, and create a squirrel feeding station if necessary. With a little effort and know-how, you can protect your garden from squirrels and enjoy fresh, delicious tomatoes all season long.