Squirrels are fascinating creatures that can be found in many different environments. You may wonder if squirrels eat plants and what types they prefer. The answer is yes, squirrels do eat a variety of plants, including fruits, seeds, nuts, and even leaves and roots.
As omnivores, squirrels have a flexible diet. They enjoy munching on berries and fungi, which can make your garden a buffet for these lively little animals. You might find them raiding your bird feeders or nibbling on the fruits from your trees, so it’s good to know what they are after.
Understanding what squirrels eat can help you protect your garden. By knowing their favorite foods, you can take steps to safeguard your plants while still appreciating these playful animals in your backyard.
Understanding Squirrel Diets and Plant Interactions
Squirrels are curious creatures with varied diets. They often impact gardens by munching on certain plants while ignoring others. Understanding their preferences can help you protect your garden effectively.
Common Plants Squirrels Are Attracted To
Squirrels are known for their love of certain plants. Here are some of the favorites:
- Bulbs: Squirrels enjoy digging up and eating bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and crocuses. These plants are especially vulnerable in the spring.
- Vegetables: They often raid gardens for tomatoes, corn, and other vegetables. Their agile movements make them effective foragers.
- Fruits: Apples are a sweet treat for squirrels. They are drawn to fruit trees, causing potential damage to your harvest.
- Seeds: Sunflower seeds are irresistible, making sunflower plants a target for squirrels looking for a snack.
Protecting these plants might require some strategies, like fencing or repellents.
Plants Less Likely to Be Eaten by Squirrels
While squirrels have favorite snacks, some plants are less appealing to them:
- Garlic and Onions: These strong-smelling plants tend to deter squirrels and other pests.
- Marigolds: These bright flowers not only beautify your garden but also help keep pests, including squirrels, at bay.
- Squirrel-Resistant Plants: Consider planting items like fritillaries and galanthus. They offer beauty without attracting hungry squirrels.
- Perennials and Shrubs: Many tough perennials and shrubs can resist squirrel damage. These plants provide structure and color while minimizing the risk of squirrel raids.
By choosing the right plants, you can create a garden that flourishes with less risk of squirrel damage.
Preventive Strategies and Squirrel Deterrence
If you want to keep squirrels away from your garden, several strategies can help. You can use physical barriers or repellents to deter these pests effectively. Here’s how to do it.
Physical Barriers and Fencing Applications
Using physical barriers is one of the best ways to protect your plants. You can install fencing around your garden. Make sure the fence is at least 4 feet tall and buried 1 foot underground to prevent squirrels from digging underneath.
Another option is to use netting or wire mesh. Covering your plants with bird netting can keep squirrels away while allowing sunlight and rain to reach your plants. Place decoys, like plastic owls, around your garden to scare squirrels off.
Remember to keep feeders away from your garden. If you feed birds, use squirrel-proof feeders that allow small birds access but block squirrels. This way, you’re not unintentionally attracting these critters.
Repellents and Alternative Strategies to Deter Squirrels
Repellents can be effective tools in your squirrel deterrence strategy. Start with natural repellents like cayenne pepper. Sprinkling it around your plants can create an unpleasant taste that squirrels dislike.
You may also consider using predator scents. These scents mimic the presence of animals that might hunt squirrels, making your garden seem less inviting. Additionally, coffee grounds scattered around your plants can be unappealing to them.
For a more high-tech option, try using motion-activated sprinklers. When a squirrel approaches, the sudden burst of water will make it want to avoid your garden. There are also various repellent sprays available that can provide extra protection.
By using these methods, you can create an environment that discourages squirrel activity in your garden.
