Gardening tips: 10 tips to keep squirrels out of your garden

Ah, squirrels¡ªthe fluffy creatures that can turn your carefully tended garden into their personal buffet. If you're tired of finding nibbled veggies or half-eaten fruits, here are ten practical tips to keep the squirrels at bay.

1) Hide or Relocate Their Food

Squirrels are like food detectives, so stash birdseed and nuts away from your garden. Invest in squirrel-proof feeders and place them far from your precious plants.

Read More: Gardening tips: A beginners guide to take care of roses

2) Get a Dog

Man¡¯s best friend can also be your garden¡¯s best defender. Squirrels will think twice about raiding your garden if they catch a glimpse of a dog.

3) Turn Up Their Noses

Squirrels have a strong sense of smell. Sprinkle spicy substances like cayenne pepper or garlic powder around your plants to deter them. Reapply after rain.

4) Surprise Them

Install a motion-activated sprinkler system. When squirrels venture too close, a sudden burst of water will send them scurrying elsewhere.

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5) Employ Natural Predators

Invite nature¡¯s hunters to your garden by installing bird feeders or nesting boxes for birds of prey like hawks or owls. Their presence can deter squirrels.

Read More: 7 simple secrets to attract birds to your home garden

6) Create a Barrier

Use physical barriers like wire mesh or chicken wire around garden beds or plants. Bury it a few inches deep to prevent squirrels from digging underneath.

7) Use Companion Plants

Planting herbs like mint or flowers such as marigolds can mask the scents that attract squirrels while adding beauty to your garden.

8) Cover the Ground

Use mulch or ground cover like gravel to make it less inviting for squirrels to dig for buried treasures like bulbs or seeds.

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9) Give Them Their Own Food

Set up a squirrel feeder filled with their favorite treats like corn or sunflower seeds. This diversion can keep them occupied and away from your crops.

Read More: 3 ways to create a personal garden in a metro city with limited space

10) Give Them a Drink

Keep a shallow dish of water in your garden. Squirrels might be less inclined to nibble on plants if they have easy access to a refreshing drink.

With these ten tips in your gardening arsenal, you can outsmart those clever squirrels and protect your plants. Experiment with different methods to find what works best for your garden and enjoy a squirrel-free sanctuary where your plants can thrive undisturbed.

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