Mastering the Art of Squirrel Eviction from Your Potted Flora Permanently
Backyard critters, like those adorable squirrels, can turn from charming companions into garden pests in a blink. Their digs for seeds, strawberries, and general mischief in your potted plants can be quite frustrating. But fret not! We've consulted some gardening gurus to share their expert tips on keeping these furry fellas away from your precious yard. Here are their top secrets:
- Create a Barrier
Your first line of defense is to erect a physical barrier around your potted plants. The complexity of this barrier depends on the type of plants you want to protect. Jennifer, a horticulturist, recommends black chicken wire as an effective deterrent. Teri, a landscape gardener, suggests using a larger cloche or cage to cover the plants. Remove the barriers when the squirrels leave your garden.
- Use Deterrents
If you prefer a more subtle approach, consider using natural or organic deterrents. "Poultry grit or fine pea gravel can be an effective deterrent," Jennifer suggests. Squirrels dislike digging through these materials, making them a great choice for preventing unwanted digging.
- Experiment with Companion Plants
Some plants act as a natural repellent for squirrels. Try planting alliums, as deer and rabbits often avoid them. The same goes for squirrels, although the effectiveness may vary depending on the squirrel's stubbornness. Teri recommends marigolds, daffodils, or nasturtiums, which deter pests and may also discourage squirrels.
- Use Spices and Scents
Try using simple household ingredients to deter squirrels from your potted plants. Teri uses pepper to create a virtually invisible scent barrier that discourages digging and is an irritant to inhale. Jennifer also recommends using cayenne pepper in your potting soil for container plantings.
- Explore Coffee Grounds and Mint
The scent of coffee grounds or mint might just be what your garden needs. Sprinkle coffee grounds around your plants, or use peppermint-soaked cotton balls discretely placed under leaves to keep squirrels at bay.
Be patient when trying out these methods, and remember that different squirrels may respond differently to deterrents. Happy gardening!
Martha Stewart, known for her expertise in horticulture, suggests using poultry grit or fine pea gravel as natural deterrents to discourage squirrels from digging in container gardens. Teri, a landscape gardener, recommends experimenting with companion plants like alliums, marigolds, daffodils, and nasturtiums, which are known to deter pests and might also be effective against squirrels. If physical barriers or deterrents aren't enough, consider using spices and scents such as pepper or cayenne pepper in your potting soil or around your plants as an added defense against squirrels. Martha Stewart also mentions that sprinkling coffee grounds or utilizing peppermint-soaked cotton balls discretely placed under leaves can help keep squirrels away from your beloved container garden ideas.
