How to Keep Squirrels Off My Tomato Plants

If you are an avid gardener, then you know how annoying it can be to find your tomato plants being raided by squirrels. These cute and fuzzy rodents can quickly destroy your garden and leave you with nothing to harvest. The good news is that there are ways to keep them away and protect your tomato plants. Here are some tips for keeping squirrels off of your tomato plants.

Understand the Habits of Squirrels

Squirrels are most active during the daytime, and they love to climb, jump, and run. They are also attracted to the smell and taste of ripe tomatoes. This means that if you want to keep them away from your tomato plants, you need to be proactive and understand the habits of these critters.

Use Physical Barriers

One of the most effective ways to keep squirrels off of your tomato plants is to use physical barriers. Some gardeners use bird netting or chicken wire to form a barrier around their plants. You can also try placing a mesh or plastic cage around your plants to prevent squirrels from reaching them. If you choose to go with a cage, be sure to leave enough space between the leaves and the cage to allow for airflow and growth.

Put Up a Scarecrow or Fake Owl

Squirrels are easily frightened by motion, so you can put up a scarecrow or a fake owl to keep them away from your tomato plants. These can be made from old clothes, straw, and other materials. Put them up in your garden to scare squirrels away. You can also try using a fake snake or other predator to keep them at bay.

Use Squirrel Deterrents

Another way to prevent squirrels from eating your tomatoes is to use squirrel deterrents. Some gardeners use chili powder, garlic, or other strong-smelling spices to repel squirrels. You can also sprinkle hot pepper flakes or cayenne pepper around your plants to keep squirrels away. Another option is to use a squirrel repellant that contains essential oils or other natural ingredients that deter squirrels from your garden.

Conclusion

Protecting your tomato plants from squirrels can be a challenge, but it is not impossible. By understanding the habits of squirrels, using physical barriers, scarecrows or fake owls, and squirrel deterrents, you can keep these pesky critters away from your garden. With a little bit of effort and persistence, you can enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest without having to worry about squirrels destroying your plants.