How To Prevent Squirrels From Eating Your Vegetable Garden In 2023

What Are Squirrels?

Squirrels are small mammals that belong to the Sciuridae family. They are native to all parts of the world, except Antarctica, and can be found in both urban and rural areas. There are three main groups of squirrels – tree squirrels, ground squirrels, and flying squirrels. Tree squirrels are the most common type and are typically grey or reddish-brown in colour. They are capable of climbing up trees and can jump from tree to tree. Ground squirrels are smaller than tree squirrels and are typically brown or grey in colour. They live in burrows in the ground and feed mainly on nuts, seeds, and other plant-based foods. Flying squirrels are the smallest of the three squirrel species and have a parachute-like membrane between their front and hind legs which allows them to glide from tree to tree.

Why Are Squirrels Eating Your Vegetable Garden?

Squirrels are a nuisance to many gardeners as they can cause damage to crops and plants. They are attracted to vegetable gardens due to the abundance of food available. Additionally, if there are trees nearby, they can use them as a launch pad to access the garden. Squirrels are also attracted to vegetable gardens as they provide a safe hiding place from predators. They will eat a wide variety of vegetables, such as corn, beans, tomatoes, peppers, and squash, as well as fruits like cherries, apples, and pears.

How to Prevent Squirrels From Eating Your Vegetable Garden

There are a number of steps that can be taken to prevent squirrels from eating your vegetable garden. The first step is to ensure that the garden is well-maintained. Make sure that all weeds are pulled and that the soil is kept moist and fertilized. Additionally, be sure to harvest your vegetables as soon as they are ripe. This will ensure that any food that squirrels might have been attracted to is no longer available.

1. Fencing

The most effective way to keep squirrels away from your vegetable garden is by installing a fence. Choose a fence that is at least four feet high and made of a material that squirrels cannot climb, such as metal or vinyl. Be sure to bury the bottom of the fence at least six inches into the ground to prevent squirrels from digging underneath it. Additionally, you can install a top rail on the fence, which will make it more difficult for squirrels to climb over.

2. Netting

If fencing is not an option, you can also use netting to protect your garden from squirrels. Choose a mesh size that is too small for squirrels to fit through, such as 1/4 inch or smaller. Place the netting over your garden and secure it to the ground with stakes. Make sure to check the netting regularly to ensure that it is still secure and that no squirrels have managed to get through it.

3. Traps

If you have a squirrel problem in your garden, you can use traps to catch and remove them. Use a live trap, such as a cage trap, and place it in an area where you have seen squirrels. Be sure to bait the trap with something that squirrels like, such as nuts or seeds. Once the squirrel is caught, release it in a wooded area away from your home.

4. Repellents

Repellents can be used to deter squirrels from your garden. These can include chemical sprays, such as predator urine or ammonia, or natural deterrents, such as mothballs or chili pepper flakes. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product when using any type of repellent.

5. Noise Deterrents

Another way to deter squirrels from your garden is to use noise deterrents. These can include ultrasonic devices that emit a high-frequency sound that squirrels find unpleasant. Additionally, you can use motion-activated devices that emit a loud noise when they detect movement. Be sure to place these devices in areas where they will be most effective, such as near trees or garden entrances.

Conclusion

Squirrels can be a nuisance for vegetable gardeners, but there are a few steps that can be taken to prevent them from eating your garden. Fencing, netting, traps, repellents, and noise deterrents are all effective methods of keeping squirrels away from your garden. Be sure to follow the instructions on any products you use, and if all else fails, you can always call a professional to help.