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Need Advice on Squirrels

It seems that everything I plant from Sunflowers to potted heirloom tomatoes and peppers, the squirrels seem to disturb them or eat them. Is there a good way to keep them away. These squirrels are pretty territorial and mean, being that we have the largest oak tree on the block.

Please help me figure out a way to protect my plants. Thanks

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Permalink Reply by Caroline Malcolm on June 1, 2011 at 11:54am

Hey Sarah!

The squirrels in my neck of the woods are such pests, too! They have no fear and will scurry up to people, plants, and pets -- they seem to annoy us all!

I haven't tried any of these natural squirrel "repellents", but there is a lot of information on the web about what has worked well for others.

- Fill birdbaths with water. Most squirrels nibble on your greens because they are thirsty. Keeping water available my deter them from your vegetable garden!

- Plant a decoy. Keep feeders full of seeds or nuts replenished AWAY from your garden. The squirrels may feast on these instead of feeding on your veggies.

- Sprinkle cayenne/chili/black pepper liberally throughout your garden. Or, make a homemade repellent by soaking cut up jalapeno peppers or garlic in water and vinegar in a spray bottle and apply to the perimeter of your garden. But remember, waterings and rain can wash this repellent away

- Fashion a wire mesh fence to completely enclose your garden. Squirrels can gnaw through plastic and chicken wire.

Has anyone else solved a squirrel problem? Share your tips and tricks with us!

Check out these links for more information:

http://www.weekendgardener.net/organic-pesticide/keep-squirrels-out...

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1532693/natural_methods_to...