What Keeps Squirrels Out of Tomato Plants? [Best Ways]

Looking to protect your precious tomato plants from mischievous squirrels?

Well, you’re in luck!

In this article, we’ll explore what keeps squirrels out of tomato plants and provide you with effective solutions to keep these furry garden invaders at bay.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, we all know how frustrating it can be to find your tomato plants ravaged by squirrels. But fear not, we’ve got you covered with practical tips and tricks to ensure your tomatoes remain safe and flourishing.

So, let’s dive right in and discover the secrets of squirrel-proofing your tomato plants!

What keeps squirrels away from tomato plants?

Tomato plants are a favorite target for squirrels, who see the juicy fruits as a delicious treat. If you’re an avid gardener, you know the frustration of waking up to find your tomato plants stripped of their ripening fruits.

Related Post: Do Squirrels Eat Tomatoes at Night?

However, there are effective ways to keep squirrels away from your precious tomato plants and ensure a bountiful harvest.

In this article, we will explore various methods and techniques to deter squirrels from feasting on your tomatoes. From natural repellents to physical barriers, we’ve got you covered.

Understanding the Behavior of Squirrels

Before we delve into the solutions, it’s important to understand why squirrels are attracted to tomato plants in the first place. Squirrels are opportunistic feeders, and when they discover a food source, they will return to it repeatedly.

They are especially drawn to ripe tomatoes due to their sweet and juicy flavor. Squirrels are agile climbers and can easily access your tomato plants, causing damage by nibbling on the fruits or even uprooting the entire plant.

Now, let’s explore the different methods that can effectively keep squirrels away.

Natural Repellents

Cayenne Pepper

Squirrels have a sensitive sense of smell, and strong odors like cayenne pepper can deter them from approaching your tomato plants. Sprinkle cayenne pepper powder around the base of the plants or mix it with water and spray it on the leaves. The spicy scent will help keep squirrels at bay.

Predator Urine

Squirrels are naturally wary of predators, and the smell of urine from animals like foxes or coyotes can act as a deterrent. You can find predator urine products available in garden stores. Apply the urine near your tomato plants to create a scent barrier that squirrels will want to avoid.

Garlic

Garlic is known for its strong odor, which can repel squirrels. Crush a few garlic cloves and mix them with water. Spray the solution on the leaves and around the tomato plants to deter squirrels from approaching.

Physical Barriers

Fencing

Installing a fence around your tomato plants can prevent squirrels from accessing them. Use a sturdy material like wire mesh or hardware cloth with openings no larger than 1 inch, as squirrels can squeeze through small gaps. Make sure the fence is at least 3 feet high and bury it at least 6 inches deep to discourage digging.

Netting

Covering your tomato plants with netting can create a physical barrier that squirrels can’t penetrate. Choose a fine mesh netting that allows sunlight and air to reach the plants while keeping squirrels out. Secure the netting tightly to prevent squirrels from slipping in through any gaps.

Collars

Creating physical barriers directly around the base of your tomato plants can also deter squirrels. Place collars made of hardware cloth or plastic tree guards around the stem of each plant. Make sure the collar extends at least 12 inches above the ground to prevent squirrels from jumping or climbing over it.

Related post: Can Squirrels Eat Cherry Tomatoes

Alternative Planting Strategies

Companion Planting

Certain plants have natural repellent properties that can help keep squirrels away from your tomato plants. Planting marigolds, garlic, or onions near your tomatoes can deter squirrels due to their strong scents. Additionally, these companion plants can help repel other pests and attract beneficial insects.

Raised Beds

Consider planting your tomatoes in raised beds. This can make it more difficult for squirrels to access the plants, as they are less likely to climb onto the beds. Furthermore, raised beds provide better drainage and soil control, creating a healthier growing environment for your tomato plants.

Hanging Baskets

Another option is to grow your tomatoes in hanging baskets. This not only makes it harder for squirrels to reach the plants but also adds an attractive visual element to your garden. Ensure the baskets are securely hung at a height where squirrels cannot jump onto them.

Protecting your tomato plants from squirrels may require a combination of techniques. Experiment with different methods to find what works best for your specific situation.

Remember to monitor your plants regularly and take action at the first signs of squirrels.

By implementing natural repellents, physical barriers, and alternative planting strategies, you can enjoy a squirrel-free tomato harvest. Happy gardening!

Keep Rats and Squirrels Out of Your Tomato Garden

FAQ

What are some effective ways to keep squirrels out of tomato plants?

There are several methods you can try to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants:

Does using netting help prevent squirrels from accessing tomato plants?

Yes, using netting can be an effective way to keep squirrels out of your tomato plants. Install a fine-mesh netting over your plants to create a barrier that prevents squirrels from reaching the tomatoes.

Can I use motion-activated sprinklers to deter squirrels from my tomato plants?

Yes, motion-activated sprinklers can be an excellent deterrent for squirrels. When the sprinkler detects movement, it releases a sudden burst of water, scaring away the squirrels. This can help protect your tomato plants from their destructive behavior.

Are there any natural repellents that can keep squirrels away from tomato plants?

Yes, there are natural repellents you can use to deter squirrels. Some options include using hot pepper sprays or creating a mixture of garlic and water to spray on the plants. The strong odors and flavors are often unpleasant for squirrels, making them less likely to approach your tomato plants.

Do scare devices like fake owls or rubber snakes work in keeping squirrels away?

Scare devices can be hit or miss when it comes to keeping squirrels away from tomato plants. While some squirrels may be deterred by fake owls or rubber snakes, others may quickly realize that they pose no real threat. It’s recommended to combine scare devices with other methods for better effectiveness.

Can planting certain companion plants help deter squirrels from tomato plants?

Yes, certain companion plants have been known to repel squirrels. Examples include marigolds, mint, and garlic. Planting these alongside your tomato plants can help mask the scent of the tomatoes and discourage squirrels from approaching.

Squirrels can be a nuisance when it comes to tomato plants, but there are effective ways to keep them out.

One method is to use physical barriers such as mesh or netting to enclose the plants, preventing squirrels from reaching them. Another option is to introduce natural deterrents like spicy or fragrant substances around the plants, which squirrels dislike.

Providing alternative food sources like bird feeders can distract squirrels from targeting the tomato plants.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively protect your tomato plants from squirrel damage. Keep squirrels out of tomato plants by using barriers, natural deterrents, and providing alternative food sources.