It’s the time of year when many of us are spending more time outdoors in our gardens. Whether we’re planting flowers, vegetables, or herbs, we want to make sure that our hard work doesn’t go to waste by pesky critters coming along and eating everything! In this article, we will provide you with a guide on how to protect gardens from animals. We’ll answer some common questions and give you some tips on what you can do to keep your plants safe. So read on and learn how to keep those furry friends at bay!
Damage Animals Can Inflict on Your Garden
One of the most important things you can do to protect your garden is to animal-proof it. This will keep animals from being able to get into your garden and eat your plants or dig up your flowers. Animals can deal a lot of damage to your garden, so it is important to take measures to prevent them from getting into it in the first place.
Besides eating your plants, animals can also leave behind diseases and parasites that can harm your plants with their droppings. For example, slugs and snails carry a disease called white rot, which can kill your plants. rabbits can carry a parasite called fly strike, which lays eggs in the rabbit’s fur. The larvae then hatch and eat the rabbit alive. This same parasite can also infect humans, so it is important to take measures to prevent animals from getting into your garden.
Not only this is unsightly, but it can also spread disease to your other plants. Animals can also dig up your plants, which not only damages the plant but can also leave a hole in your garden that other animals can use to get in.
How to Protect Garden From Animals
Luckily, there are a few things you can do to protect your garden from animals. In this section, we will discuss some of the most effective methods.
Identify the animal
The first step is to identify the animal that is causing the damage. This will help you determine what type of protection is needed. Some animals are more difficult to keep out than others. For example, deer can jump high fences, while rabbits can burrow under them.
If you’re not sure what type of animal is damaging your garden, look for signs of tracks or droppings. You can also set up a camera to take pictures or videos of the culprit in action. [1]
Check your local laws
If you are unsure about the laws in your state, you can contact your local wildlife department or animal control office.
Fencing
One of the most effective ways to keep animals out of your garden is to build a fence. A well-constructed fence will not only keep animals out but will also add a touch of aesthetic appeal to your property. There are many different types of fencing materials available on the market, so you should have no trouble finding one that suits your needs.
Before installing a fence, consider the size and type of animals you need to keep out. If you live in an area with large predators, such as bears or coyotes, you will need a fence that is tall and made of sturdy material. Wire mesh or chain-link fences are both good options for deterring these types of animals.
First, mark the perimeter of your garden with stakes and string. Then dig a trench around the perimeter that is deep enough for your fence posts. And be sure to bury it at least 12 inches underground to prevent animals from digging underneath it.
Some animals are also good climbers, so it is important to make sure that your fence is tall enough and has no gaps or holes that they could use to get into your garden. Once you have installed your fence, be sure to check it regularly for any damage or holes that may have been created by animals.
In order to be effective, electric fences must be regularly maintained and checked for malfunction. If you notice any gaps in the fence, make sure to repair them immediately. Another important thing to remember is that electric fences do not work on all animals. For example, birds and even small rodents can easily slip through the fence without being harmed. [1] [2] [3]
Barriers
In addition to fencing, you can also use barriers to keep animals out of your garden. Barriers can be made out of a variety of materials, such as concrete, stone, or metal.
If you live in an area with small animals such as rabbits or mice, you can install a wire mesh barrier around your garden. This will keep them from being able to enter and eat your plants.
Plant barriers are another option for deterring animals. Some plants, such as roses and thorns, can make it difficult for animals to access your garden. You can also plant certain types of vegetables, such as chili peppers, that will deter animals from eating them.
No matter which type of barrier you choose, be sure to maintain it regularly. Inspect plant barriers for damage and replace them if necessary. Check wire mesh barriers for holes or gaps and repair them as soon as possible. [2]
Spray cayenne pepper tea
Another way to keep animals out of your garden is to spray a cayenne pepper tea around the perimeter. Animals are highly sensitive to smells, and the strong smell of cayenne pepper will deter them from entering your garden.
Cayenne pepper is not only an effective deterrent for animals, but it can also be used as a natural insecticide. If you are having trouble with pests in your garden, try spraying cayenne pepper tea around the affected area. [2]
Use predator urine
Another effective way to keep animals out of your garden is to use predator urine. You can purchase this product at most hunting supply stores. Simply apply it around the perimeter of your garden. The strong smell will deter animals from entering.
If you have cats, you can also use their urine to deter animals from your garden. Simply collect some in a container and sprinkle it around the perimeter of your garden. [2]
Plant natural detergents
There are also certain plants that can deter animals from your garden. Some of the most popular plants that deter animals include:
- Lavender;
- Peppermint;
- Rosemary;
- Garlic;
As you can see, the list consists mainly of aromatic herbs. This is because animals are deterred by strong smells. You can plant these herbs around the perimeter of your garden to keep animals out.
These plants will not only deter animals, but they will also make your garden smell great! Not to mention, you can use these herbs in your cooking as well. Keep in mind that this method isn’t universal, as some animals are not deterred by these plants. [1] [2] [3]
Make a beer trap
Another way to keep animals out of your garden is to make a beer trap. This involves placing a can of beer in your garden, with the top left slightly open. While this method won’t be as effective against critters like rabbits or deer, it can be helpful in deterring slugs and snails. The pests will be attracted to the beer and climb into the can, but will not be able to get back out. You can then dispose of the pests as you see fit.
If you don’t want to kill them, you can simply release them far away from your home. However, this method may not work as well if the pest is particularly determined to get into your garden.
Another variation of this method is to use a plastic bottle instead of a can. Cut the bottom off of the bottle and place it upside down in the ground, with the opening facing up. The animal will be attracted to the bait and crawl into the bottle, but won’t be able to get back out. [2]
Install lethal traps
If you are looking for a more permanent solution, you can install lethal traps in your garden. These can be purchased at most hardware stores and can be baited with a variety of different foods. Once an animal steps on the trigger, the trap will kill them instantly. While this may seem inhumane, it is often the most effective way to keep animals away from your garden.
Install covers over the garden
You can also protect your garden by installing covers over it. This will prevent animals from being able to access the plants and will also protect them from the elements. There are a variety of different types of covers that you can use, so be sure to choose one that is right for your needs.
The main advantage of this method is that it can protect not only small rodents but also birds. The disadvantage is that it can be quite costly to install, and you will need to make sure that the cover is properly secured so that animals cannot get under it.
Another thing to keep in mind is that covers can also prevent sunlight from getting to your plants, so you will need to make sure that they are not in direct sunlight for too long.
Still, covers are a great way to protect your garden from animals, but they do have some drawbacks that you should be aware of before using them. [2] [3]
Plant in containers or raised beds
If you are really worried about animals getting into your garden, you can always plant in containers or raised beds. This will also make it more difficult for animals to access your plants and roots. If you are using containers, be sure to choose ones that are heavy enough so that they cannot be easily tipped over.
Another benefit of using containers or raised beds is that it will help to keep your plants away from areas where there is a lot of animal activity. This will minimize the chances of your plants being damaged by animals.
You can also use chicken wire or hardware cloth to create a barrier around your containers or raised beds. This will further deter animals from getting to your plants. [1] [2] [3]
Don’t leave pet food outside
Sometimes, avoiding animals in your garden is as simple as not giving them a reason to visit in the first place. If you have pets, don’t leave their food outside. This will attract all sorts of animals, from raccoons to rodents.
Not only that, but it can also attract predators like coyotes and foxes. So, if you want to keep animals out of your garden, make sure to keep pet food indoors.
Another way to deter animals is by cleaning up any fallen fruit or nuts from trees. If you have fruit trees in your yard, pick up any fallen fruit as soon as possible. Otherwise, you’ll just be inviting animals into your garden for a free meal. [1] [3]
Contain your compost
Similarly, if you have a compost bin, make sure it is properly sealed. If your compost bin is open or has gaps, animals will be able to get into it and rummage through the contents. This can attract all sorts of animals, from rodents to raccoons.
You should also avoid adding meat or other animal products to your compost. This can attract scavengers such as raccoons or opossums. [1] [2] [3]
Scare them away
Lastly, you can always try to scare animals away with noise, light, or scent. The cheapest way to do so is by placing a scarecrow in your garden. You can use any type of material to make a scarecrow, but ensure that it is big and visible enough to scare the animals away.
Another way to scare animals away is by using ultrasonic devices. These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are only audible to animals and will help keep them away from your garden.
In some cases, wind chimes or lights can also help to keep animals away. The movement and noise from the wind chimes will scare animals, while the light will deter nocturnal creatures.
You can also use motion-activated sprinklers. These will startle animals when they enter your garden and deter them from coming back.
While these methods may not work 100% of the time, they can be effective in deterring some animals. [1] [2] [3]
FAQ
Do wind chimes keep animals away?
Some people believe that wind chimes will help to keep animals away from the garden. While some animals may be scared off by the noise that the wind chimes make, other animals may be attracted to the sound. If you are having problems with animals in your garden, it is best to try a variety of different methods to see what works best for your situation.
How do you prevent animals from eating your garden?
One way to prevent animals from eating your garden is by using a fence. Fences can deter many animals, such as deer, rabbits, and groundhogs. If you live in an area with small rodents, you may want to consider using chicken wire or hardware cloth. Another way to keep animals out of your garden is by using scare tactics. You can use things like noise-makers, bright lights, or even water sprayed from a hose to startle animals and keep them away.
What can I spray around my garden to keep animals out?
Cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic are all effective at deterring animals. You can make a homemade spray by mixing these ingredients in water and spraying it around your garden perimeter.
Another option is to purchase a commercial animal repellent like Bobbex or Liquid Fence. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label, as some repellents need to be reapplied after rainfall.
Will vinegar keep animals away from the garden?
Yes, vinegar can keep animals away from the garden. Vinegar is an acrid smell that animals do not like, so spraying it around the perimeter of the garden can deter them from entering. Additionally, pouring vinegar into any holes or burrows that animals have made will encourage them to find a new home elsewhere.
Useful Video: Quick Easy Way to Protect Garden Bed From Animals Digging Up Plants
Conclusion
Keeping animals out of the garden can be difficult, but it is possible with a little effort. By using fencing, netting, and other physical barriers, as well as natural repellents, you can keep animals away from your plants. You may also need to take measures to keep animals away from your garbage cans and compost bins. Finally, remember that some animals are protected by law, so be sure to check local ordinances before taking any action against them. With a little bit of planning and effort, you can protect your garden from animals and enjoy all the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor. Do you have any tips for keeping animals out of the garden? Share them in the comments below!
References:
- https://www.countryliving.com/gardening/garden-ideas/g4144/protect-your-garden-from-critters/
- https://www.greenmatters.com/p/protect-vegetable-garden-animals
- https://www.summerwindsnursery.com/ca/inspire/blog/10-easy-ways-to-protect-garden-from-pests/