Last Updated on January 19, 2023 by Urska
Are you wondering how to repel squirrels from garden? Ever wake up to see your garden disheveled, fruit or vegetables missing or your flower bulbs completely destroyed? Then you surely have a squirrel problem.
Squirrels are little cute thieves but don’t be fooled by their looks, they are the worst nightmare for the gardeners.
Preventing Squirrels In Garden
The first thing you can do to make sure it will not attract squirrels is not to leave any food outside trash cans because the smell can easily attract them to your garden.
If they have already occupied the garden and have been eating your tomatoes, cucumbers or any other vegetables, it is a sign that squirrels may be thirsty. Try putting a dish of water near the vegetables. That way, squirrels would rather drink freshwater than eat your tomato. Unless they are very naughty.
How To Repel Squirrels Naturally
Dogs, Dogs, Dogs!
If you already have a dog, then don’t worry! He will keep your garden safe from squirrels. They are natural hunters and they respond to every sound of rustling in the garden. Also, if your dog is shedding, take the hairs and make them into small ball pieces and place them in the garden.
Human Hair
If you ask your elderly members of the family, they will advise you to put human hair all over your garden or to the most critical places. It may sound ridiculous but it works! Ask your hairdresser to collect a bag of hair and place the hair into vegetable soil. The human smell is a strong repellent for squirrels.
Spices
The most effective natural squirrel repellent is cayenne pepper which you can find in any supermarket near you. You can also try with chili flakes or garlic pepper.
Once squirrels try the vegetables or flowers which are sprinkled with peppers, they wouldn’t dare to try it again!
Others say that if you put marigolds, vinegar, or peppermint oil on the borders of your garden, it will repel squirrels due to the strong aroma. But it is tricky to fight squirrels as said above because of the weather conditions. After just one rain or stronger wind, you’ll have to do it all over again. You have to be persistent if you don’t have any other choice.
You can see this video, advising on how to get rid of squirrels with natural repellents.
Read more about Best Rabbit Repellent: Best Ways to Repel Rabbits
Physical Barriers To Repel Squirrels
It implies fences or nets where squirrels can squeeze through so it’s best to put barriers without holes or at least it has to be small ones. Most supermarkets sell fences that are specifically made for rats and rodents.
You can also put small wires around the borders of your garden and even wrap aluminum foil around it. Squirrels are not fans of the shiny reflections.
You can also try with motion-activated sprinkles. The water bill will maybe go up, but it will result in scaring squirrels away!
BH-3, 2 Pack – Ultrasonic Pest Repeller – Electronic Plug in Best Repellent
To Sum Up- How To Repel Squirrels From Yor Garden
In conclusion, if you notice that you have hungry squirrels in your garden, don’t try to feed them or give them food! That way, they will come back with maybe even more rodent friends. Remove any leftovers or compost in your garden and keep it clean. Don’t forget to re-apply the natural repellents after bad weather conditions and consider getting yourself a dog.
Tony Manhart is a passionate gardener who has been tending to gardens for over 20 years. He takes pride in creating beautiful outdoor spaces with plants, trees, and shrubs that can thrive in any environment. He loves to share his knowledge with others and has taught classes on gardening basics and advanced techniques. He is committed to sustainability, using natural and organic methods to create and maintain gardens. He also works with local organizations to create green spaces for communities. When he’s not gardening, Tony enjoys hiking, reading, and spending time with his family.
