How do you keep squirrels out of the garden?

Our Greener Answer:

There are several methods for keeping squirrels out of your garden.

1. Fencing or netting.  Dig at least two-inches down around the perimeter of your garden and install squirrel netting or a mesh wire fencing with stakes at least ten inches above ground.  Squirrels have been known to chew through chicken wire and plastic fencing, so if you’re fencing, stick with something tightly woven and chew-proof.

2. Squirrel repellant sprays.  This is definitely the least green option, often including the urine of squirrel predators.  It can be costly, must be applied often, and washes away in the rain.

3. Natural squirrel repellant.  Usually cayenne pepper or garlic, but I’ve also seen bags of human hair recommended around the perimeter of the garden.  Also must be applied or refreshed often, as well as after a rainfall.  These methods can be harmful to the squirrels.

4. Feed and water the squirrels.  This is our favorite method for keeping squirrels out of our garden.  You can feed the squirrels by buying extra birdseed, sunflower seeds (or grow your own!), or even plant a few extra rows of veggies to keep the squirrels happy.  Pair with a bird bath or low water dish to keep their thirst quenched, and you have happy squirrels that aren’t a nuisance.

No matter your chosen method of dealing with squirrels, make sure that it isn’t harmful to your own fruits and veggies – it’s much better to have a few less tomatoes than to have a whole bed of them covered in toxic chemicals.