How to Keep Squirrels Out of Your Garden

Understanding the Problem: Why Squirrels Invade Your Garden

Squirrels might be cute with their bushy tails and quick movements, but they can also be a nuisance, particularly if they decide to invade your garden.

Understanding why squirrels target gardens is the first step in keeping them out.

One main reason is that gardens offer an abundant source of food.

Squirrels are opportunistic feeders, and your garden might provide a buffet of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

Physical Barriers: Fencing and Netting

One effective way to keep squirrels out of your garden is by creating physical barriers.

Fencing and netting can be used to protect your plants.

When choosing fencing, opt for one made of metal mesh with small holes.

This prevents squirrels from squeezing through.

Ensure the fence is at least 12 inches deep into the ground to avoid them digging underneath.

Additionally, the fence should extend at least 2 feet above the height you want to protect.

Another barrier method is using bird netting, especially for fruits and vegetables.

Cover the plants completely, securing the netting to the ground.

This creates a protective layer against squirrels and other critters.

Homemade Repellents: Natural and Safe Solutions

Homemade repellents can also help deter squirrels from your garden.

These solutions are often natural and safe for plants and wildlife.

Peppermint oil is a popular choice.

Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water and spray it around your garden.

Squirrels dislike the strong scent and will steer clear.

Another option is using garlic and hot pepper spray.

Blend garlic and hot peppers with water, strain the mixture, and spray it on your plants.

The pungent smell and spicy taste will discourage squirrels from munching on your garden treats.

Commercial Repellents: Effective Store-Bought Options

If homemade solutions aren’t cutting it, consider commercial repellents.

There are many products available that are specifically designed to keep squirrels at bay.

One highly-rated option is the Bonide Repels-All Animal Repellent.

This product contains natural ingredients such as dried blood, putrescent whole egg solids, and garlic oil.

It’s said that many users find it effective in deterring a variety of pests, including squirrels.

Simply spray it around your plants, and the strong odor will help keep squirrels away.

Pros

• Effective against a wide range of pests.
• Natural ingredients.
• Easy to use.

Cons

• May need frequent reapplication.
• Strong odor might be unpleasant for some people.

Another product to consider is the Havahart Critter Ridder.

It uses black pepper oil, piperine, and capsaicin to create an unpleasant taste and smell for squirrels.

This dual-action formula can be applied around the perimeter of your garden and onto the plants themselves.

Pros

• Dual-action deterrent.
• Long-lasting effects.
• Safe for use on plants.

Cons

• Can be expensive.
• May require multiple applications for best results.

Using Noise and Motion to Deter Squirrels

Noisemakers and motion-activated devices can also be effective in keeping squirrels out of your garden.

These devices startle and scare off the squirrels, preventing them from settling in.

One popular device is the PredatorGuard PestAway Ultrasonic Outdoor Animal Repeller.

This product uses high-frequency sound waves that are unpleasant for squirrels but inaudible to humans.

Additionally, it has a motion sensor to activate when it detects movement, providing an extra layer of deterrence.

Pros

• Non-lethal and humane.
• Low maintenance.
• Effective for various pests.

Cons

• May require a power source or batteries.
• Effectiveness can vary depending on the environment.

Another option is using motion-activated sprinklers like the Orbit 62100 Yard Enforcer Motion-Activated Sprinkler.

This device uses a sensor to trigger a burst of water when it detects movement, startling squirrels and other intruders.

It’s a humane way to protect your garden without causing harm.

Pros

• Humane and safe.
• Also waters your plants.
• Deters multiple types of pests.

Cons

• Requires a water source and hose connection.
• May need periodic adjustments.

Planting Squirrel-Repellant Plants

Another natural way to deter squirrels is by planting squirrel-repellent plants around your garden.

These plants emit strong scents or have textures that squirrels find unpleasant.

One option is to plant daffodils.

Squirrels tend to avoid these flowers due to their toxicity and strong scent.

Another effective plant is the fritillaria.

This plant’s strong odor repels squirrels, protecting your other garden plants.

Alliums, members of the onion family, also work well as a deterrent.

Their pungent smell keeps squirrels away while adding a decorative touch to your garden.

Feeding Stations and Distractions

Sometimes, the best way to keep squirrels out of your garden is by giving them an alternative food source.

By setting up a feeding station elsewhere in your yard, you can redirect their attention away from your garden.

Fill the feeding station with foods that squirrels love, such as sunflower seeds, peanuts, and corn.

This approach can help keep them satisfied and less likely to raid your garden.

One downside is that you may attract more squirrels, so weigh the pros and cons before choosing this method.

Keeping Your Garden Clean and Tidy

A clean and tidy garden is less attractive to squirrels.

Remove fallen fruits, nuts, and seeds regularly to eliminate potential food sources.

Also, keep your compost bin covered and secure to prevent squirrels from digging through it.

Properly storing garden tools and equipment can also reduce hiding spots for squirrels.

The less appealing your garden is, the less likely squirrels will choose it as their playground.

Using Pets to Deter Squirrels

If you have pets, particularly dogs, they can be a great natural deterrent for squirrels.

Dogs love to chase after squirrels, and their presence alone can be enough to keep squirrels away.

Letting your dog roam the yard during the day can create a hostile environment for squirrels.

Just be mindful of your dog’s safety and well-being while they are outside.

Additionally, cats can also act as a deterrent.

Their predatory nature can scare off squirrels and keep your garden safe.

Utilizing Traps to Capture and Relocate Squirrels

Sometimes, trapping and relocating squirrels can be an effective way to manage their population and protect your garden.

Live traps are designed to capture the squirrel without causing harm.

One popular option is the Havahart Small Animal Trap.

It is easy to set up and has a sensitive trigger plate that ensures the squirrel is captured humanely.

Once trapped, you can relocate the squirrel to a suitable location far from your garden.

Pros

• Humane and non-lethal.
• Reusable trap.
• Effective for various small animals.

Cons

• Requires frequent checking.
• Legal restrictions on relocating wildlife in some areas.

When using a live trap, it is important to follow local wildlife regulations and relocate the squirrel responsibly.

Implementing a Guard Animal

Certain animals can act as natural deterrents for squirrels.

For example, owls are natural predators of squirrels and their presence can reduce squirrel activity.

Installing an owl box can encourage owls to inhabit your yard.

This can create a natural deterrent for squirrels.

An owl statue can also be used as a visual deterrent.

Utilizing Scent-Based Deterrents

Certain scents are known to deter squirrels from gardens.

For example, predator urine such as fox or coyote urine can be effective.

You can find these products online or at garden supply stores.

Sprinkle it around the perimeter of your garden.

This method relies on the squirrel’s natural fear of predators.

Ammonia-soaked rags can also serve as a deterrent.

Place them in strategic locations around your garden.

Be sure to replace them regularly.

Creating a Hostile Environment

Squirrels are less likely to remain in an environment that feels unsafe or uncomfortable.

You can use reflective objects like CDs or aluminum foil to deter squirrels.

Their shiny surfaces can scare squirrels away.

Wind chimes or pinwheels can also create a noise and visual disturbance.

This will discourage squirrels from staying in your garden.

Using a combination of these methods can enhance effectiveness.

Electrical Deterrent Systems

For some, using an electrical deterrent system might be an option.

These systems deliver a non-lethal shock when a squirrel encounters them.

One such product is the Bird-X Yard Gard Electronic Animal Repeller.

This device emits a high-frequency sound and has an option for a shock.

The shock is mild and designed to startle rather than harm the squirrel.

Pros

• Effective and non-lethal.
• Can be used for other pests.
• Adjustable settings for different animals.

Cons

• Requires a power source.
• May be expensive.

When using electrical systems, ensure the safety of pets and children in the area.

Building Raised Beds and Protective Covers

Sometimes physical barriers need to be more specific and targeted.

Raised garden beds can help protect plants from ground-dwelling squirrels.

Combine these with protective covers like cloches or hoop houses.

These covers can create a physical barrier that is hard for squirrels to penetrate.

Select covers made with strong materials like metal or thick plastic.

This makes it even more difficult for squirrels to chew through.

Using Ultrasonic Devices

Ultrasonic devices can emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant for squirrels.

These sounds are typically not noticeable to humans but can deter squirrels effectively.

One option is the T3-R Triple High Impact Mice, Rat, and Rodent Repeller.

This device emits a powerful ultrasonic sound that scares off pests.

Pros

• Humane and non-lethal.
• Effective for multiple types of pests.
• Low maintenance.

Cons

• Effectiveness may vary depending on the environment.
• Requires a power source.

Regularly monitor the efficacy of ultrasonic devices.

Move them around if necessary to cover more areas.

Bird Feeders with Squirrel Guards

Squirrels often raid bird feeders for seeds and nuts.

Using bird feeders with squirrel guards can prevent this.

The Squirrel Buster Plus is a popular feeder with built-in guards.

Its design ensures that only birds can access the seeds.

It shuts off access when a heavier animal like a squirrel tries to feed.

Pros

• Prevents food theft by squirrels.
• Durable and weather-resistant.
• Easy to install and maintain.

Cons

• Can be expensive.
• Requires occasional cleaning and maintenance.

Place feeders away from trees and fences to reduce squirrel access.

Frequently Asked Questions About Keeping Squirrels Out of Your Garden

How do I keep squirrels from eating my garden plants?

Use physical barriers like fencing and netting, homemade or commercial repellents, or noise and motion-activated devices to deter them.

What natural methods can I use to deter squirrels?

Planting squirrel repellent plants, using scent-based deterrents like predator urine, and creating a hostile environment with reflective objects can help.

Are there any gadgets that can help keep squirrels away?

Yes, devices like motion-activated sprinklers, ultrasonic repellers, and bird feeders with squirrel guards can be effective.

Can my pets help keep squirrels out of the garden?

Yes, dogs and cats can act as natural deterrents, as their presence alone can scare squirrels away.

Be sure to monitor your pets while they are outside to ensure their safety.

Is trapping and relocating squirrels a good option?

Trapping and relocating can be effective but should be done according to local wildlife regulations.

Use humane traps like the Havahart Small Animal Trap for this purpose.

How do I make my garden less appealing to squirrels?

Keep your garden clean and tidy by regularly removing fallen fruits, nuts, and seeds.

Cover compost bins and properly store garden tools to reduce hiding spots.

Can smell-based repellents work against squirrels?

Yes, strong scents such as peppermint oil, garlic, hot pepper spray, and predator urine can repel squirrels.

Apply these repellents around your garden to keep squirrels at bay.

If you found this helpful, you might be interested in learning more about squirrel species that might frequent your garden.

What kind of plants can repel squirrels?

Plants like daffodils, fritillaria, and alliums can act as natural deterrents.

Their strong smells and textures are unpleasant for squirrels.

Integrating Squirrel-Resistant Strategies

Successfully keeping squirrels out of your garden often requires a combination of methods.

Using multiple deterrents enhances the overall effectiveness.

Consistently monitor and tweak your approach based on observed squirrel behavior.

This integrated strategy ensures your garden remains a squirrel-free zone.