How To Keep Squirrels Out Of Garden

Squirrels are nimble, bushy-tailed rodents found all over the world. We know - squirrels can be pretty cute sometimes. However, even the cutest of Squirrels can quickly turn into a gardener's worst nightmare as they cause damage in the garden. They like to dig in lawns for nuts. Also, they can quickly decimate the crop of a vegetable garden or fruit tree.

Methods for Keeping Squirrels Out

Garden Fencing

Fencing with 1/2- to 1-inch mesh is the top recommendation for keeping any wildlife out of gardens. The fence must be at least 4 feet high for guarding against squirrels or rabbits. But you may need to bury a few inches of the netting in the ground to prevent them from digging underneath.

Hide or Remove Their Food

Squirrels most commonly feed on nuts and seeds. If you have nut trees or berries, be diligent about cleaning up fallen nuts, acorns, and berries. Also, keep trash can lids securely closed as well.

Get a Dog

Probably one of the most reliable ways to reduce squirrel problems in your yard is to keep a dog or cat outside as much as possible during the daylight hours. Most dogs love to chase squirrels. Put them on squirrel patrol and let them scare the squirrels away.

Individual Plant Protection

Use 1/4- to 1/2-inch-mesh poultry netting to create cylinders to protect new trees, shrubs, or vines. The fencing should be    buried to prevent burrowing and the cylinder should be at least 2 to 4 inches greater than the diameter of the plant and braced away from it to prevent squirrels or rabbits from pushing the netting and reaching through to nibble.

Build a Polytunnel

A polytunnel can offer some protection from the elements and dangers, your crops may face outside in your garden.

Hopefully, you'll find the right combination of the techniques above that will help to keep your squirrel problems manageable.