If you’ve ever planted beautiful spring bulbs only to wake up and find them mysteriously dug up or missing, you’re not alone. Squirrels, though adorable, can be persistent little thieves in the garden, especially when it comes to bulbs like tulips and crocuses. But don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to protect your bulbs and keep those bushy-tailed bandits at bay. Here’s your friendly, easy-to-follow guide on how to keep squirrels from eating bulbs.
Why Do Squirrels Eat Bulbs?
Understanding why squirrels target bulbs can help you outsmart them. Squirrels need a diet rich in fats and proteins, especially as colder months approach and nuts become scarce. Bulbs are a convenient, nutritious food source for them. Unlike green plants, which contain cellulose that squirrels can’t digest well, bulbs provide energy-dense starches that help them survive the winter.
Choose Bulbs That Squirrels Don’t Like
One of the simplest strategies is to plant bulbs that squirrels tend to avoid. For example, daffodils, hyacinths, and some varieties of crocus are usually left alone because they taste bad or are mildly toxic to squirrels. On the other hand, tulips and regular crocus bulbs are like candy to them, so if you want these beauties, you’ll need extra protection.
Physical Barriers: The Best Defense
Chicken Wire or Wire Mesh
A tried-and-true method is to create a physical barrier between squirrels and your bulbs. After planting, lay a layer of chicken wire or wire mesh over the soil. This mesh is tough enough to keep squirrels from digging but still allows your bulbs to grow through it in spring. Cover the wire with mulch or soil to keep it in place and maintain your garden’s aesthetic.
Bulb Cages
If you prefer to protect only specific bulbs, consider using bulb cages. These are small wire cages that encase each bulb or group of bulbs, preventing squirrels from reaching them. You can buy them or make your own by shaping chicken wire into a bowl with a lid, then planting as usual.
Protecting Bulbs in Pots
For bulbs in pots, cover the top with chicken wire or a similar mesh. This prevents squirrels from digging into the pots. You can also sprinkle deterrents like cayenne pepper, garlic powder, or coffee grounds on the soil surface to repel them with strong smells they dislike.
Natural and Chemical Deterrents
Repellent Sprays
There are commercial squirrel repellent sprays available that may help keep squirrels away. These often need to be reapplied regularly, especially after rain. Some gardeners use hot pepper wax sprays, which stick to plants and bulbs without harming animals but discourage squirrels with their spicy taste and smell.
Avoid Harmful Substances
Avoid using ground hot pepper powder directly on soil as it can cause severe pain if it gets into animals’ eyes. Also, stay away from mothballs, which are toxic and can contaminate your garden soil.
Homemade Repellents
Sprinkling bloodmeal around bulbs can deter squirrels due to its strong scent, though it can be smelly and needs reapplication after rain. Coffee grounds and garlic powder are other natural options that squirrels tend to avoid.
Planting Tips to Reduce Squirrel Interest
Plant Bulbs Deeper
Squirrels usually dig only about two inches deep. Planting bulbs deeper than this can make it harder for them to reach the bulbs.
Smooth the Soil Surface
After planting, smooth the soil surface and cover it with leaves or mulch. Squirrels look for disturbed soil as a sign of food, so disguising the planting spots can confuse them and reduce digging.
Plant Later in the Season
Planting bulbs later in the fall shortens the window squirrels have to find and dig them up before they sprout, decreasing the chance of theft.
Additional Tips to Keep Squirrels Away
– Alternate deterrents: Use different repellents and barriers to keep squirrels from getting used to one method.
– Apply deterrents early: Start using repellents before bulbs sprout to prevent squirrels from marking your garden as a food source.
– Use prickle strips: Rubber spike strips can be placed around planting areas to discourage squirrels without harming them.
– Lay gravel: Some gardeners find that gravel around bulb beds deters digging because it’s uncomfortable for squirrels to move through.
Squirrels can be clever and persistent, but with a combination of physical barriers, natural repellents, and smart planting strategies, you can protect your bulbs and enjoy a vibrant, squirrel-free garden come spring.
Keep your bulbs safe, and your garden will thank you with a beautiful, blooming display!