One of the most thwarting challenges for gardeners is treat with squirrels . These impish creatures are notorious for assist themselves to our hard - take in harvest time , and Lycopersicon esculentum seem to be one of their favorite target . However , there are several effective strategies you could apply to keep squirrels from devouring your valued love apple .
One method acting is to utilise leaden duty hardware cloth to construct a sturdy cage around your love apple plants . This cloth is strong and durable , making it difficult for squirrels to chew through . If undercoat squirrel are the elementary perpetrator in your area , a simple fence that is 18 inch magniloquent and bury 6 inches below soil should suffice . This will prevent them from burrowing under the fence and accessing your plant .
On the other hired man , if tree squirrels are the main offenders , a more comprehensive approach is needed . Building a larger cage that envelop the entire tomato flora is necessary to keep these agile creatures at bay . This can be done by constructing a frame using wooden or metallic element stakes and incubate it with the same heavy tariff hardware cloth . Be sure to leave enough space between the cage and the industrial plant to allow for increase and airflow .
To further heighten the effectualness of your squirrel deterrent , consider follow up the come after strategies :
1 . utilize squirrel repellents : There are various commercial repellents uncommitted that can be spray on and around your love apple plant life . These product often contain innate ingredients such as hot common pepper , garlic , or predator urine , which make an unpleasant aroma and taste for squirrels .
2 . apply movement - activated devices : Squirrels are spooky creatures , and sudden motion or racket can startle them aside . Install motion - activate sprinklers or ultrasonic gimmick near your tomato plants to deter squirrel from approaching . These machine are touch off by the presence of the squirrel and emit a flare-up of water or high - oftenness sound that scares them off .
3 . allow for alternative food sources : Squirrels are timeserving eaters , and if they have an well accessible food source , they may be less inclined to target your tomato . Consider rate Bronx cheer affluent or squirrel birdfeeder away from your garden to perturb them and keep them engross .
4 . utilise forcible barriers : If you have trees or structures near your tomato plant that squirrels use to gain memory access , consider instal barriers such as metal collars or sheet alloy to preclude them from climbing . This can in effect block their way of life and discourage them from achieve your plants .
5 . Regularly harvest advanced tomato : Squirrels are more likely to target amply ripe tomatoes , so it ’s of the essence to harvest them as soon as they are quick . This contract the temptation for squirrels and derogate the damage they can do .
recollect , perseverance is key when administer with squirrel . They are healthy and adaptable wight , so it may take a combination of these strategies to effectively protect your tomatoes . Do n’t be discouraged if they find loophole or new ways to access your plants ; simply adjust your defence consequently . With patience and perseveration , you may relish a liberal tomato crop while outsmarting those pesky squirrel .
Caroline Bates
