How to Keep Squirrels Out of Raised Garden Beds
Introduction
Gardening is a rewarding and fulfilling hobby, but sometimes pesky squirrels can wreak havoc on our precious plants. If you have raised garden beds, you might think they provide a safe haven for your plants away from these furry intruders. However, determined squirrels can still find their way in if proper preventive measures are not taken. In this blog post, we will explore some effective strategies to keep those mischievous critters out of your raised garden beds once and for all.
Selecting the Right Location
The first step in preventing squirrel intrusion is selecting an appropriate location for your raised garden beds. Choose an area that is away from overgrown trees or structures that may serve as launching points for these agile creatures. Additionally, ensure the bed is not too close to fences or other objects that could be used as a means of access.
Install Physical Barriers
One popular method to deter squirrels from entering your raised garden beds is by installing physical barriers. Use wire mesh with small openings (around 1/4 inch) around the perimeter of each bed. Ensure the mesh extends beneath the soil surface at least six inches deep to prevent burrowing attempts by persistent rodents.
Another option is using bird netting stretched tightly across stakes surrounding the entire bed area—this makes it difficult for squirrels to jump into or climb onto your precious plants.
Natural Deterrents
If you prefer natural methods instead of physical barriers, there are several items you can use as natural deterrents:
1. Cayenne Pepper: Sprinkle cayenne pepper generously around your raised garden beds – its strong scent will repel squirrels.
2. Predator Urine: Look online or visit a local gardening store to find predator urine, such as that of foxes or coyotes. Apply the urine around your garden beds at regular intervals, which simulates a predator presence and deters squirrels.
3. Bloodmeal: Sprinkling bloodmeal—a natural fertilizer made from dried animal blood—around the garden can repel squirrels due to its scent and taste.
Keep Your Garden Tidy
Maintaining cleanliness in and around your raised garden beds is crucial for squirrel prevention. Remove fallen fruits, nuts, or any other food sources that might attract these furry invaders. Regularly rake debris from nearby trees or shrubs away from the bed area to discourage them from nesting close by.
Create Distractions
To divert squirrels’ attention away from your precious plants, consider creating attractive distractions elsewhere in your yard. Set up bird feeders stocked with seeds or provide a separate designated feeding spot containing nuts and sunflower seeds specifically for these cheeky critters. By offering an alternative food source, you increase their chances of staying out of your raised garden beds.
Conclusion
Squirrels may present a challenge when it comes to keeping them out of our beloved raised garden beds; however, implementing some effective strategies can help ensure the safety of our plants while maintaining harmony with nature’s little acrobats. Remember to select an appropriate location, install physical barriers or use natural deterrents if preferred, keep your surroundings tidy, and create distractions where necessary. By following these tips consistently, you will be able to enjoy bountiful harvests without having unwanted guests nibbling on all your hard work!