Gardening takes a lot of hard work, so when animals like neighborhood pets, local wildlife, and other pests decide to wreak havoc on your precious plants, you will want to take action as soon as possible to prevent further destruction of your garden.
From pests like the cucumber beetle to the grasshopper and your neighbor's dog, your plants may become their next meal if left untreated.
Deer can especially be a nuisance because they will often feed on your precious garden plants while you are away from home. They even love snacking on flowers like tulips that many homeowners incorporate into their landscapes.
Other wildlife such as birds, moles, armadillos, rabbits, and raccoons can do just as much damage to yards, gardens, and landscapes by digging holes, stealing vegetables, and damaging your property when given the chance.
Even your precious pets may decide that your beautiful garden is the perfect spot to dig in or relieve themselves of yesterday's meal.
Keeping animals and other critters out of your garden can be extremely frustrating, but controllable without the use of dangerous chemicals which can harm precious plants and pets.
Below are several natural methods that have been used with positive results to keep unwanted wildlife, pets, and insects out of your garden.
Identifying the Critter
Whether it's an animal or insect, you will want to know exactly what type of pest you are dealing with in your garden.
While building a fence may keep out your neighbor's dog, it won't stop a rabbit from stealing the vegetables in your garden.
Trying to catch the critter in the act isn't always easy, especially when your garden invader only comes out at night. Look for tracks to identify any local or wildlife animals. If you are unsure what animal has invaded your garden, you can contact your local wildlife resource center, who can help you in identifying the culprit.
Protecting Your Garden
Planting a garden is hard work, so why wouldn't you want to protect it? Putting a fence up can help keep creatures out of your plants.
Wildlife animals such as deer often need a taller fence of at least 8 feet, which can be pricey. Some success has been seen by using two short fences that are placed 2 feet apart. This method fools deer into thinking there is not enough space to jump. Another successful solution would be to place two shorter fences so that they are confined in a small space since deer do not like being trapped in small areas.
If rodents are the culprit, you will want to bury your fence at least 5 inches deep to deter rabbits and armadillos from entering your yard. For added protection, chicken wire placed on the bottom edge of your fence can help.
If birds are a problem in your blackberry bushes, a lightweight mesh can be used to keep them out. Birds can't push through the small openings of the mesh to snatch the ripened fruit from your bushes.
Natural Repellants
Sometimes it's simply more cost-effective to use a natural repellant to ward off animals. Look for a product that contains predator urine or other odors to keep critters out. Just keep in mind that you will need to reapply the product to surrounding areas you want to protect after a windy day or heavy rainstorm.
Another solution to prevent animals from entering your yard or garden us with an electronic device that sends them a tiny shock or sound, warning them to stay away.
A motion-activated sprinkler, wind chimes, or reflective items such as a pie pan or tape work well for unwanted critters in the garden.
Eliminating Unwanted Animals
Traps that catch critters such as armadillos can help keep your garden safe while giving bothersome animals a second chance at life by relocating them. You can also call your local animal control center to help remove the pesky animal if you are unsure of how to do it yourself.
.
What do you plant in Your garden?