How to Keep Squirrels off Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are delicious fruits that are enjoyed by both humans and animals. Unfortunately, squirrels may also find your precious tomato plants tasty and may destroy them before you can even harvest any. If you’re a gardener tired of these furry creatures plundering your tomato plants, read on to learn some tips on how to keep squirrels off tomato plants.

1. Use Physical Barriers

One effective method to keep squirrels off tomato plants is by using physical barriers. You can enclose your plants within chicken wire or other sturdy wire mesh. The wire should be at least 3 feet tall and buried a few inches deep in the soil to prevent the squirrels from burrowing underneath it. You can also cover the plants with bird netting or plastic bags with holes in them to protect the fruit from being eaten by squirrels, birds, or other pests.

2. Use Repellents

Another way to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants is by using repellents. There are a variety of repellents available that are either natural or chemical-based. You can use hot pepper sprays, garlic, predator urine, or even mothballs to deter squirrels. However, be careful in using chemical-based repellents as they may harm other animals, plants, and even humans. Always read labels and follow instructions carefully.

3. Plant Companion Plants

Companion planting is an effective way to keep squirrels off tomato plants without using harsh chemicals. You can plant companion plants like marigolds or mint around your tomato plants as they can help repel squirrels and other pests. Marigolds have a strong scent that repels squirrels, while mint has a pungent smell that confuses them.

4. Use Sound and Light

Squirrels are easily scared by loud noises and flashing lights. You can use this to your advantage by installing reflective surfaces, such as wind chimes, shiny tape or aluminum foil, around your tomato plants. You can also play loud music or any sound that squirrels find unpleasant, like barking dogs, to scare them away.

5. Harvest Your Tomatoes Early

If all else fails, you can always harvest your tomatoes early before the squirrels get to them. This may not seem like an ideal solution, but it will at least ensure that you’ll get a decent harvest from your plants. You can also plant extra tomato plants so that you’ll still have some to spare even after the squirrels have caused damage.

There you have it – some effective methods on how to keep squirrels off tomato plants. Remember to be humane in your approach and avoid causing harm to these cute critters. Squirrels are just trying to survive like any other animal, but with a little creativity, you can coexist with them in your garden.