How To Keep Critters Out Of Your Vegetable Garden
Garden Fencing
One of the most effective ways to keep critters out of your vegetable garden is to install a fence. A strong, well-built fence is your best defense against deer, rabbits, and other animals that will happily munch away at your hard-earned harvest. You can purchase premade garden fencing from any home improvement store. Make sure you choose a fence that’s tall enough to keep out most animals; aim for a fence that’s at least 6 feet tall. You can also build your own fence from wood, chicken wire, or other materials. If you decide to go with a DIY fence, make sure to include a gate so you can easily access your garden.
Fool Them With Dummy Plants
If you’re trying to protect a small garden from birds and other small animals, you can use dummy plants made of plastic or other materials. These dummy plants are designed to look like the real thing, but they won’t be eaten by critters. Place the dummy plants around the perimeter of your vegetable garden to scare away hungry animals. Just make sure you replace them every few months, as they will eventually fade and look less realistic.
Grow Plants That Deter Pests
There are certain plants that have natural pest-deterrent properties. Planting these types of plants around the perimeter of your vegetable garden can help keep critters away. Garlic, onions, and chives are all great options, as they have a strong scent that animals won’t like. You can also plant marigolds, which are known for their ability to repel insects. Be sure to keep these plants well-watered, as they’ll be less effective if they become dry and brittle.
Traps and Repellents
If you’re dealing with a specific type of pest, you can use traps and repellents to keep them away from your garden. For example, you can use a live animal trap to catch rabbits or rodents. You can also use ultrasonic devices to repel deer, and mothballs to repel insects. Just make sure to use these products with caution and follow the instructions carefully.
Grow Plants That Attract Beneficial Insects
You don’t want to get rid of all the insects in your garden; some of them can actually be beneficial. Planting certain types of flowers can attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and bees. These insects will help keep the bad insects away, as they’ll compete for the same food sources. Some flowers that attract beneficial insects include daisy, lavender, and sunflower.
Cover Your Garden
If you’re dealing with a lot of pests, you may want to cover your garden with a net or other material. This will keep the critters out while still allowing sunlight and water to reach your plants. If you decide to go this route, make sure to water your plants regularly and check for signs of disease or pest infestations.
Keep Your Garden Clean
To keep critters away from your vegetable garden, be sure to keep it clean and free of debris. Remove any fallen leaves or plant matter, as this can attract pests. Also, be sure to pick ripe fruits and vegetables before they have a chance to rot and attract critters. Finally, don’t forget to clean up after yourself; don’t leave food scraps or other waste in or around your garden.
Check Your Garden Regularly
Finally, it’s important to check your vegetable garden regularly for signs of pests. If you spot any critters, take action right away to get rid of them. You can use traps, repellents, or other methods to keep them away. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your vegetable garden safe from critters and enjoy a bountiful harvest.
Conclusion
Keeping critters out of your vegetable garden doesn’t have to be a chore. With a few simple steps, you can protect your garden from pests and enjoy a healthy harvest. Start by installing a strong fence, then use dummy plants and natural pest deterrents to scare away animals. Additionally, you can use traps and repellents to get rid of specific pests, and attract beneficial insects by planting certain types of flowers. Finally, keep your garden clean and check it regularly for signs of pests. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a successful vegetable garden.
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