Garden Ideas to Keep Squirrels Out: Simple Tips for Pest-Free Plants

Dealing with squirrels in your garden can be quite the challenge. These little critters are known for digging up bulbs, munching on your veggies, and generally causing a ruckus in your well-tended garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, finding ways to keep squirrels at bay is essential for a healthy and productive garden.

How can you protect your garden from these persistent pests without harming them? There are plenty of humane and effective methods to consider. From simple barrier techniques to natural deterrents, you’ll find a variety of strategies that can help you enjoy your garden without constantly worrying about squirrel damage.

1) Install Motion-Activated Sprinklers

Motion-activated sprinklers can surprise and scare away squirrels from your garden.

These devices detect movement and release a jet of water, which frightens the squirrels.

Position the sprinklers in areas where you often see squirrels, like near bird feeders or garden beds.

Adjust the sensitivity settings and move the sprinkler every few days to keep the squirrels on their toes. This method can be very effective for keeping your garden safe.

2) Use Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders

Squirrel-proof bird feeders are a great way to keep those pesky squirrels from munching on your birdseed. These feeders often have features like weight-activated perches that close off access to the food when a squirrel climbs on.

Another option is using feeders with cages around them. These cages allow birds to eat but keep squirrels out. You might also try feeders that spin or tilt when a squirrel tries to climb on, throwing them off balance.

For more tips, check out these 17 proven ways to keep squirrels away from bird feeders.

3) Plant Daffodils Around the Garden

Daffodils are a great option for keeping squirrels out of your garden. These bright flowers are not only pretty but have a taste and smell that squirrels dislike.

Planting daffodils around the edges of your garden can create a natural barrier. Squirrels will be less likely to venture through them to get to your other plants.

In addition to being squirrel deterrents, daffodils are easy to grow and care for. They thrive in many different types of soil and sunlight conditions, making them a versatile choice for any garden.

4) Sprinkle Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a great way to keep squirrels out of your garden. The heat from the pepper irritates their noses and mouths.

Sprinkle cayenne pepper around the soil of your plants. You can also dust it directly on plant leaves.

Mixing cayenne pepper with petroleum jelly can help it stick to plant stems better.

5) Invest in Ultrasonic Repellers

Ultrasonic repellers emit high-frequency sounds that squirrels find unpleasant. These sounds are usually inaudible to humans and pets, making them a great non-intrusive option.

Modern ultrasonic devices often come with variable frequency settings. This prevents squirrels from getting used to a single sound. Some models even combine ultrasonic waves with LED lights for added effectiveness.

When choosing a repeller, consider the range it covers. You’ll want one that can protect the entire garden area. Popular choices are available on wildanimalscentral.com.

6) Cover Soil with Chicken Wire

Covering your garden soil with chicken wire can stop squirrels from digging up your plants. Cut pieces of chicken wire to fit over the areas where you have seeds or bulbs.

Make sure to secure the edges of the wire with stakes or rocks. This keeps it in place and makes it harder for squirrels to move. For extra protection, bury the edges of the wire a few inches into the ground.

7) Use Mint Plants as Deterrents

Mint is known for its strong scent, which squirrels do not like. Planting mint around your garden can help keep these critters at bay. You can plant different types of mint like peppermint or spearmint.

Place the mint plants along the garden’s edges or near the plants you want to protect. This way, the scent will act as a natural barrier. Mint is also easy to grow and requires well-drained soil and sufficient sunlight. For more tips, check out these simple tricks.

8) Set Up Physical Barriers

You can set up fences around your garden. A fence that’s at least three feet tall and extends several inches into the ground works well. This stops squirrels from digging underneath.

Another option is to use netting over plants. Netting keeps squirrels from reaching your veggies and fruits.

Using mesh or chicken wire can help too. These materials create barriers that squirrels can’t easily chew through.

9) Apply Commercial Squirrel Repellents

You can keep squirrels out of your garden by using commercial repellents. These products often use natural ingredients that squirrels dislike.

Apply the repellent to your plants and garden beds as directed.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the best results and avoid harming your plants.

10) Erect a Squirrel Baffle

A squirrel baffle can be a great addition to your garden. These barriers prevent squirrels from reaching your bird feeders.

A wrap-around baffle is a popular choice and simple to install.

Another option is a clear baffle which also helps keep your birdseed dry. Erecting one of these can be an effective way to protect your bird feeders.

Understanding Squirrel Behavior

Knowing why squirrels behave a certain way helps you manage their presence in your garden. This section breaks down common squirrel habits and the factors that attract them to gardens.

Common Squirrel Habits

Squirrels are active during the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. They use this time to forage for food, which they stash in various locations for future use. You may notice squirrels scurrying around, digging small holes in the ground—this is part of their caching behavior.

They are also skilled climbers and jumpers, easily navigating trees, fences, and walls. You might see them balancing on power lines or making impressive leaps from branch to branch. Squirrels have sharp teeth that continually grow, so they gnaw on wood, plastic, and even metal to keep their teeth in check.

Understanding these behaviors helps explain why they’re so difficult to keep out of a garden. They are persistent, adaptable, and always on the lookout for food.

Why Squirrels are Attracted to Gardens

Squirrels are drawn to gardens primarily due to the abundance of food. Gardens offer a variety of plants, fruits, nuts, and vegetables that provide a rich food source. They are particularly fond of berries, tomatoes, and greens, which can disappear quickly once squirrels find them.

In addition to food, gardens also provide shelter. Tall plants, trees, and shrubs offer hiding spots and safe paths to move around. Water sources such as birdbaths or fountains also attract squirrels, as they need water to stay hydrated.

Mulch, compost, and soil in gardens attract squirrels too. The loose earth is perfect for them to bury their food, and compost piles often contain organic material that squirrels can eat. This combination of food, shelter, and water makes gardens a favorite spot for these nimble creatures.

Natural Deterrents

To keep squirrels out of your garden naturally, use plant-based repellents and scents they dislike. These methods are eco-friendly and safe for your plants.

Plant-Based Repellents

Squirrels are sensitive to certain plants. Planting flowers that they dislike can help keep them away. For instance, marigolds, daffodils, and hyacinths are great choices because squirrels hate their scent.

Other plants that work well include mint, alliums, catnip, and lily of the valley. These plants not only repel squirrels but can also add beauty to your garden.

Consider planting these in borders or around vulnerable plants to create a natural barrier. This way, your garden will be protected without needing chemical repellents.

Using Scent to Repel Squirrels

Squirrels have a strong sense of smell, so certain scents can drive them away. Cayenne pepper, for instance, is effective in deterring squirrels. You can make a DIY spice repellent by boiling cayenne peppers in water, cooling the mixture, and then spraying it around your garden.

Essential oils like peppermint and eucalyptus also work well. Soak cotton balls in these oils and place them around areas where squirrels are a problem.

Another method is to use predator urine, like that of foxes, as a deterrent. These scents can create a hostile environment for squirrels, encouraging them to find somewhere else to play.

Physical Barriers

Using physical barriers can effectively keep squirrels out of your garden. These methods include creating fences and using netting or covers to protect your plants.

Fencing Solutions

Fences are a great way to protect your garden from squirrels. A good option is hardware cloth, a mesh material that you can use to create a fence around garden beds. This prevents squirrels from digging in the soil.

You can also use plastic or metal mesh fencing. Make sure the fence is at least 12 inches deep to stop squirrels from burrowing under. Bury the fencing a few inches underground for added security.

Adding a small electric fence can also work. These fences give a harmless shock that discourages squirrels from trying to enter your garden.

Netting and Covers

Netting is another useful tool. Placing netting over your garden beds can keep squirrels from accessing plants. Look for netting with small holes so squirrels can’t squeeze through.

Row covers work well for protecting specific plants. These covers are lightweight and can be placed directly over plants without harming them.

You can also create DIY covers using old window screens. Just place the screens over your plants and secure them with small stakes or stones. This offers an easy, affordable way to prevent squirrels from reaching your plants.

Using these physical barriers together will help ensure your garden stays squirrel-free.