What Vegetables Will Squirrels Leave Alone? Protecting Your Garden from Pesky Rodents
While squirrels might look cute scampering around, they can wreak havoc on a vegetable garden. Fortunately, some vegetables are naturally less appealing to these furry foragers. In short, what vegetables will squirrels leave alone? The answer largely centers around vegetables with strong smells, prickly textures, or a general lack of palatability for squirrels, including certain alliums (onions, garlic), peppers, squash, and cucumbers.
Understanding the Squirrelly Appetite
Squirrels are opportunistic omnivores, meaning they’ll eat almost anything they can get their paws on. However, they do have preferences. Like humans, they tend to go for foods high in carbohydrates and fats, especially nuts, seeds, and fruits. Vegetables, while a source of nutrients, often don’t provide the same caloric punch, making them less desirable unless preferred food sources are scarce. Understanding this helps gardeners strategize on what vegetables will squirrels leave alone?
Vegetables Squirrels Tend to Avoid
Several factors make certain vegetables less attractive to squirrels. Strong odors, prickly textures, and even the chemical composition of the plant can act as natural deterrents. Here’s a breakdown:
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Alliums (Onions, Garlic, Leeks, Chives): The strong, pungent smell of these plants is generally off-putting to squirrels. Plant these as a barrier around more desirable vegetables.
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Peppers (Especially Hot Peppers): Capsaicin, the compound that gives peppers their heat, is a significant deterrent. Squirrels dislike the burning sensation.
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Cucumbers (Sometimes): While some squirrels might nibble on cucumbers, many find the taste and texture unappealing, especially the bitter varieties.
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Squash (Hard-Skinned Varieties): The tough outer skin of some squash varieties, such as pumpkins and winter squash, makes them less attractive. However, young, tender squash may still be vulnerable.
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Tomatoes (Sometimes): While some squirrels will eat tomatoes, especially ripe ones, many others leave them alone. It’s not a surefire bet, but worth noting.
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Herbs (Mint, Rosemary, Lavender): Many strongly scented herbs can deter squirrels. While not technically vegetables, they can protect your vegetable garden through companion planting.
Growing Strategies to Deter Squirrels
Besides choosing squirrel-resistant vegetables, consider these strategies:
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Physical Barriers: Chicken wire, netting, and fences can physically prevent squirrels from accessing your garden. Bury the bottom of the fence to prevent digging.
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Companion Planting: Planting deterrent vegetables like onions and garlic around more vulnerable crops can help repel squirrels.
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Repellents: Commercial squirrel repellents are available, often containing ingredients like capsaicin or predator urine.
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Provide an Alternative Food Source: Although counterintuitive, providing a designated squirrel feeding station far from your vegetable garden might satisfy their hunger and keep them away from your crops.
Common Mistakes in Squirrel Deterrence
Gardeners often make these mistakes when trying to deter squirrels:
- Inconsistent Application of Repellents: Repellents need to be reapplied regularly, especially after rain.
- Insufficient Physical Barriers: Gaps in fences or netting provide easy access for squirrels.
- Relying Solely on One Method: A combination of strategies is usually more effective than relying on a single tactic.
- Ignoring Fallen Fruit and Vegetables: Rotting fruit and vegetables attract squirrels and other pests. Keep your garden clean.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What vegetables are squirrels most attracted to?
Squirrels are most attracted to sweet and easily accessible vegetables like corn, peas, beans, and strawberries. These foods provide a high source of energy and are easy for them to consume.
Will squirrels eat my lettuce?
Unfortunately, lettuce is a common target for squirrels. Its tender leaves are easy to eat and provide moisture. Protecting your lettuce with netting or cages is recommended.
Do squirrels eat carrots?
Yes, squirrels will eat carrots, especially the tops. The root itself might be less appealing, but they won’t hesitate to snack on the leafy greens.
Does planting garlic actually deter squirrels?
Yes, the strong scent of garlic is generally repellent to squirrels. Planting garlic around your garden can act as a natural deterrent, but its effectiveness can vary.
What kind of fencing is best for keeping squirrels out?
A chicken wire fence that is at least 2-3 feet high and buried several inches into the ground is an effective barrier. Ensure there are no gaps or holes. Adding an overhanging lip to the fence can further deter climbing.
Are there any plants that attract squirrels away from my garden?
While not directly attracting them away, providing a designated squirrel feeding station with nuts and seeds away from your vegetable garden can divert their attention.
How often should I reapply squirrel repellent?
Reapply squirrel repellent every 1-2 weeks, or more frequently after rain or watering. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Will squirrels eat green tomatoes?
While squirrels generally prefer ripe tomatoes, they may occasionally nibble on green tomatoes, especially if other food sources are scarce.
Is there a humane way to deter squirrels?
Yes, using humane traps to relocate squirrels, along with employing other deterrent methods like repellents and barriers, is a humane approach. Check local regulations before trapping and relocating wildlife.
What is the best time of year to implement squirrel control measures?
The best time is before they start causing damage, typically in the spring as they emerge from winter. However, implementing control measures year-round can help prevent infestations.
Can I use dog or cat hair to deter squirrels?
Yes, spreading dog or cat hair around your garden can deter squirrels due to the scent of predators. Replenish the hair regularly, especially after rain.
Besides vegetables, what else attracts squirrels to my garden?
Squirrels are attracted to bird feeders, pet food left outdoors, uncovered garbage cans, and water sources. Eliminating these attractants can help reduce squirrel activity in your garden.