If you’ve ever found your ripe tomatoes mysteriously nibbled or half-eaten, squirrels might be the culprits. These little critters love the juicy sweetness of tomatoes, often taking bites without eating the whole fruit, which can be frustrating for any gardener. But don’t worry-there are plenty of effective ways to keep squirrels from eating your tomatoes and safeguard your harvest. Here’s a friendly guide packed with practical tips to help you protect your tomato plants all season long.
Why Do Squirrels Eat Tomatoes?
Squirrels are naturally curious and opportunistic feeders. Tomatoes attract them not only for their taste but also for their moisture content, especially during hot or dry weather. They often bite into smaller, green tomatoes because they are easier to handle, then suck out the juice without eating the entire fruit. Sometimes, squirrels nibble on tomatoes simply because they are thirsty, so providing an alternate water source can help reduce damage.
1. Build Physical Barriers
One of the most reliable ways to keep squirrels away is to physically block their access to your tomato plants.
– Fencing: Install a fence at least 5 to 6.5 feet tall, burying the bottom 6 to 8 inches underground to prevent digging. Use sturdy wire mesh or hardware cloth to create a barrier around your garden or tomato beds.
– Protective Netting: Cover your tomato plants with bird netting or wire mesh that has small openings. Make sure the netting is securely fastened so squirrels can’t slip underneath or squeeze through.
– Cages: Construct cages using chicken wire or welded wire fencing around individual plants or entire beds. Adding a roof to the cage helps prevent squirrels from jumping in from nearby trees.
2. Use Natural Repellents
Squirrels dislike certain strong smells and tastes, which you can use to your advantage.
– Plant Companion Herbs: Garlic, onions, hot peppers, basil, rosemary, and marigolds planted near your tomatoes can repel squirrels due to their pungent aromas.
– Sprays: Apply chili pepper sprays or hot pepper wax on your tomato plants. These sprays contain capsaicin, which deters squirrels without harming the plants. Just remember to wash tomatoes before eating if you use edible sprays.
– Other Scents: Peppermint oil, apple cider vinegar, coffee grounds, and even pet hair scattered around the garden can discourage squirrels from coming near.
3. Create Distractions and Alternatives
Sometimes, giving squirrels an alternative food source or water can keep them away from your precious tomatoes.
– Squirrel Feeders: Set up feeders stocked with nuts, apples, carrots, or even extra tomatoes away from your garden. This can satisfy their hunger and reduce the temptation to raid your plants.
– Water Bowls: Place a bowl of fresh water or a birdbath a short distance from your tomato patch. Hydrated squirrels are less likely to bite into tomatoes just for moisture.
4. Employ Scare Tactics
Squirrels are smart but cautious animals. Using scare devices can help keep them at bay, especially if you change their placement regularly.
– Predator Decoys: Fake owls, snakes, or hawk decoys can frighten squirrels. Move these decoys frequently to maintain their effectiveness.
– Noise and Motion: Wind chimes, pinwheels, reflective tape, or motion-activated sprinklers can startle squirrels and discourage them from lingering.
– Pets: If you have a dog or cat, their presence and scent can be a natural deterrent. Even scattering pet fur around your garden can help keep squirrels away.
5. Harvest Early and Protect Fruit
– Pick Tomatoes Early: Harvest tomatoes as soon as they start to change color. You can let them ripen indoors on a countertop, reducing the time they’re vulnerable to squirrel attacks.
– Bagging Fruit: While plastic bags are not ideal due to moisture buildup and heat, paper bags can be used to cover individual tomatoes, protecting them from squirrels and sun damage. This method is labor-intensive but effective for small gardens.
6. Maintain Your Garden Environment
– Mulch and Cover Soil: Squirrels like to dig in bare soil to bury or find food. Keeping soil covered with mulch or plants discourages digging around your tomato plants.
– Avoid Feeding Birds in Summer: Bird feeders can attract squirrels. Instead, provide fresh water for birds and pests, which encourages them to eat garden insects rather than birdseed that attracts squirrels.
7. Consider Professional Help
If squirrels persist despite your efforts, consulting a professional pest control service can provide tailored solutions for your area.
Protecting your tomatoes from squirrels requires a combination of strategies-physical barriers, natural repellents, distractions, and regular garden care. With patience and persistence, you can enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest without unwanted nibblers ruining your crop.
Enjoy your gardening and happy harvesting!