Garden pests can be a real headache for gardeners, especially when they start nibbling on your precious plants. Rabbits, woodchucks, chipmunks and squirrels are some of the common culprits that cause damage to gardens. Fortunately, there are many natural ways to keep these pests at bay and protect your plants. In this article, we’ll explore different preventative measures for each animal and also touch on electric fencing as an effective solution.
Rabbits:
Rabbits are notorious for their appetite for fresh greens. To keep them away from your garden, consider planting herbs and flowers that rabbits find unappetizing. Some plants like marigolds, sage, lavender, and thyme are not very appealing to rabbits. Additionally, you can create a barrier around your garden using chicken wire or hardware cloth. The fence should be at least 2 feet high and buried at least 6 inches deep into the soil to prevent rabbits from digging underneath.
Woodchucks:
Woodchucks or groundhogs are known for their burrowing and digging habits. To prevent these pesky animals from digging under and damaging your garden, it’s important to set up an effective fence. A fence made of welded wire mesh is ideal for keeping woodchucks out. The fence should be at least 3 feet high and buried at least 1 foot deep into the soil. Additionally, you can add a 2-foot wide apron at the base of the fence to discourage digging.
Chipmunks:
Chipmunks are cute and tiny creatures, but they can be quite destructive as they burrow and tunnel through gardens. To prevent them from destroying your garden, remove any debris and clutter that may provide cover for chipmunks. You can also use wire mesh to line the bottom of your garden bed to stop them from burrowing. Additionally, trap and relocate them to a suitable location away from your garden.
Squirrels:
Squirrels are notorious for their love of nuts, but they can also cause damage to your garden by digging up bulbs and seedlings. One way to keep squirrels away is to plant bulbs and seedlings in containers with tight-fitting lids. You can also create a barrier around your garden using wire mesh. To discourage squirrels from climbing into trees and reaching your garden, apply a squirrel repellent spray made from natural ingredients like peppermint oil, hot peppers, or garlic.
Electric Fencing:
Electric fencing is an effective and versatile solution for keeping all types of garden pests away. An electric fence delivers a mild electric shock to deter pests from entering your garden. Install the fence at least 2 feet high above ground and ensure that any vegetation touching the fence is trimmed back. Additionally, ensure there are no gaps or holes in the fence that pests can slip through.
There are many natural ways to prevent rabbits, woodchucks, chipmunks, and squirrels from getting into your garden. Each animal requires a different approach, and it’s important to choose the method that works best for your situation. With the right preventative measures in place, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest without having to worry about garden pests.
The Author:
Pioneerthinking.com – Ingredients for a Simple Life.
Photo. Steffi Wacker