Squirrels can be a major headache for gardeners, digging up plants and wreaking havoc in garden beds and potted plants.
To protect your garden and maintain a beautiful yard, here are effective ways to keep squirrels away using the best squirrel repellers and deterrents.
Erect a Barrier to Keep Squirrels Out
One of the most effective ways to keep squirrels away from your garden beds is by installing a physical barrier. Use hardware cloth, Hexagonal wire, or fine mesh fencing around your garden. Make sure to bury the barrier at least 6 inches into the ground to prevent squirrels from digging underneath.
For potted plants, wire mesh covers or cloches can be used to protect the soil surface while still allowing sunlight and water to reach the plants. This method offers excellent squirrel control by creating a physical obstacle they can't easily overcome.
Safeguard Bird Feeders to Prevent Squirrels
Bird feeders often attract squirrels to your yard. To avoid this, either remove the feeders or install a squirrel baffle. A squirrel baffle is a cone-shaped or cylindrical device that prevents squirrels from climbing up the feeder pole.
Additionally, ensure the feeder is placed at least 10 feet away from any trees or structures that squirrels could use to jump onto the feeder. This simple addition can drastically reduce the number of squirrels in your yard, helping you with squirrel deterrent and overall squirrel control.
Plant Unappealing Plants to Squirrels
Some plants naturally deter squirrels due to their scent or taste. Consider planting daffodils, alliums, hyacinths, or fritillaries in your garden. These plants contain compounds that squirrels find unappealing.
Additionally, strong-smelling herbs like mint, garlic, and rosemary can act as a natural squirrel deterrent when planted around your garden beds or in pots. This is a natural way to keep squirrels away without harming them.
Spice It Up with Hot Pepper to Repel Squirrels
Squirrels have a strong sense of smell and dislike spicy substances. Sprinkling hot pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a capsaicin-based spray on your plants and soil can be an effective way to get rid of squirrels.
These substances won’t harm the plants but will create an unpleasant experience for any squirrel trying to dig or nibble. For lasting squirrel control, be sure to reapply after rain or watering.
Use Sound to Scare Away Squirrels
Noise can be a powerful squirrel deterrent. Squirrels are naturally skittish and can be scared away by loud, unpredictable noises. Ultrasonic devices that emit high-frequency sounds, only detectable by animals, can be effective.
Alternatively, a portable radio placed near the problem area can work wonders. By playing loud music or talk radio, you can disrupt the squirrels' comfort zone and help keep squirrels away from your garden beds and potted plants.
Light Up the Area with Motion-Activated Lights
Squirrels are not fond of sudden, bright lights. Installing motion-activated lights around your garden beds and potted plants can be an effective way to keep squirrels away.
When a squirrel triggers the sensor, the sudden flash of bright light will startle and scare it away. This method is especially useful during early morning and evening hours when squirrels are most active, offering another layer of squirrel control.
Create a Scare Zone with Fake Predators
Visual deterrents can be very effective in keeping squirrels at bay. Place fake predators like rubber snakes, plastic owls, or hawks in strategic locations around your garden.
To enhance the effect, opt for models that feature motion or sound. Reflective tape or shiny objects, like old CDs, can also be hung around the garden to create flashes of light that squirrels find unsettling. Regularly moving these items will help maintain their effectiveness as a squirrel deterrent.
By implementing these strategies, you can effectively protect your garden beds and potted plants, ensuring your yard remains squirrel-free.
Whether through physical barriers, natural repellents, or scare tactics, these methods provide a comprehensive approach to squirrel control and will help you keep squirrels away for good.