Are you tired of those pesky squirrels wreaking havoc in your garden? Don’t fret! I’ve got some fantastic news for you. By strategically planting certain types of plants, you can send those bushy-tailed critters scampering away.
These plants possess natural scents, textures, or tastes that squirrels find repulsive, deterring them from turning your precious plants into their personal buffet.
So, put on your gardening gloves and get ready to reclaim your garden from these mischievous rodents. Here are 17 plants that will help you keep squirrels at bay!
1. Daffodils (Narcissus):
Squirrels may love to frolic in your garden, but they don’t fancy the taste or scent of daffodils. These bright and cheery flowers not only bring joy to your garden but also serve as natural squirrel deterrents.
Plant daffodil bulbs strategically around your garden beds or create borders with them to discourage squirrels from feasting on your precious plants.
With their vibrant yellow, white, or orange blooms, daffodils will add a pop of color and keep those furry intruders at bay.
2. Alliums:
Squirrels aren’t the only critters that can wreak havoc on your garden; deer and rabbits can be culprits too.
Fortunately, alliums come to the rescue as they repel a wide range of garden pests, including squirrels. These ornamental flowers, such as Purple Sensation or Drumstick alliums, emit an onion-like scent that squirrels find off-putting.
Plant them strategically among your vulnerable plants or create borders to create a squirrel-free zone in your garden.
3. Marigolds (Tagetes):
When it comes to deterring squirrels, marigolds are a superhero in the plant kingdom. These vibrant flowers not only add a burst of color to your garden but also emit a strong scent that squirrels can’t stand.
Plant marigolds near the entry points of your garden or around your most cherished plants to keep squirrels at bay. Plus, marigolds attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that can help control other garden pests.
4. Hyacinths:
Hyacinths are not only a fragrant delight for our senses but also a nuisance for squirrels. These beautiful spring-blooming flowers release a scent that squirrels find repulsive.
By planting hyacinths near vulnerable areas such as vegetable patches or flower beds, you’ll discourage squirrels from nibbling on your prized plants.
With their wide range of colors, from soft pastels to vibrant purples and pinks, hyacinths will make your garden look and smell fantastic while keeping squirrels at a distance.
5. Geraniums:
Geraniums are like the guardians of your garden, protecting it from squirrel invasions. These stunning flowers, available in a variety of colors, emit a pungent aroma that squirrels find unpleasant. Lemon-scented geranium varieties are particularly effective in deterring squirrels.
Plant geraniums in containers or directly in the ground near vulnerable plants or areas frequently visited by squirrels. Their vibrant blooms and natural squirrel-repellent properties make them a must-have addition to your garden.
6. Fritillarias:
Squirrels have sensitive noses, and certain scents drive them away. Enter fritillarias, a group of charming bell-shaped flowers that emit an odor squirrels find offensive. These unique plants will not only keep squirrels away but also add an element of intrigue to your garden.
Fritillarias come in various colors, including deep purples, chequered patterns, and whites, making them a visually appealing choice for your squirrel-proof garden.
7. Mint (Mentha):
While humans find the refreshing scent of mint delightful, squirrels find it overwhelming. Take advantage of this by planting mint around the perimeter of your garden to create a natural squirrel barrier.
Mint’s strong aroma will discourage squirrels from crossing the mint-scented border and feasting on your beloved plants.
Just be aware that mint can be quite invasive, so consider planting it in containers or using barriers to prevent it from taking over your garden.
8. Lavender (Lavandula):
Lavender is known for its calming properties, but it also possesses squirrel-repellent qualities. Squirrels find the strong fragrance of lavender flowers and foliage offensive, making it an excellent choice for your squirrel-free garden.
Plant lavender near entry points, around vulnerable plants, or even in pots placed strategically throughout your garden. Not only will you keep squirrels away, but you’ll also enjoy the soothing scent and beautiful purple blooms that lavender provides.
9. Catnip (Nepeta cataria):
While cats go wild for catnip, squirrels have the exact opposite reaction. Squirrels find the scent of catnip unappealing, so planting it strategically in your garden can create a squirrel-free zone.
Catnip’s delicate white or lavender flowers and aromatic foliage will keep squirrels at bay while delighting your feline friends. It’s a win-win situation for both you and your cat, as you get a squirrel-free garden and your cat gets a natural source of entertainment.
10. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis):
Rosemary isn’t just a culinary herb; it’s also a powerful squirrel deterrent. The strong fragrance of rosemary leaves masks the scents of other plants that squirrels find appealing.
Plant rosemary near vulnerable plants or create a border with this aromatic herb to keep squirrels away. Plus, you’ll have a readily available supply of rosemary for adding flavor to your favorite dishes.
11. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum):
Squirrels are notorious for nibbling on tender plant shoots, but they have a strong aversion to the smell of chives.
Planting chives in your garden not only protects your plants but also provides you with a fresh supply of this tasty herb. The tall, slender leaves and delicate purple flowers of chives add beauty to your garden while warding off squirrels.
Grow them near vulnerable plants or as borders to create a squirrel-free sanctuary.
12. Bleeding Heart (Dicentra):
The whimsical and enchanting flowers of bleeding hearts hold a secret weapon against squirrels: their taste. Squirrels find the flavor of bleeding hearts unappealing, making them an excellent choice for squirrel-resistant gardening.
The heart-shaped flowers dangle from delicate stems, creating a captivating sight in your garden while keeping squirrels at bay. Plant bleeding hearts near areas prone to squirrel activity or among other vulnerable plants to protect them.
13. Barberry (Berberis):
If you’re looking for a plant that does double duty by adding color to your garden and repelling squirrels, barberry shrubs are the answer. These thorny bushes provide colorful foliage, ranging from vibrant greens to deep purples, and act as a natural squirrel deterrent.
Squirrels avoid the prickly branches of barberry, making it an effective barrier against their intrusion. Plant barberry strategically around your garden to create a formidable squirrel defense line.
14. Garlic (Allium sativum):
Garlic not only adds flavor to your cooking but also keeps squirrels away from your garden. The strong scent of garlic plants repels squirrels, making them an excellent addition to your squirrel-proof garden.
Plant garlic near vulnerable plants or between rows of vegetables to provide an extra layer of protection. Not only will you have a squirrel-free garden, but you’ll also have a bountiful supply of fresh garlic for your culinary adventures.
15. Rue (Ruta graveolens):
Squirrels have a keen sense of smell, and certain scents drive them away. Rue is one such plant that squirrels find repugnant. Its blue-green foliage and yellow flowers add an intriguing touch to your garden while effectively deterring squirrels.
Plant rue near vulnerable plants or as a border to create a squirrel-free zone. Just be cautious, as rue can cause skin irritation, so handle it with care when gardening.
16. Salvia (Salvia officinalis):
Squirrels rely heavily on their sense of smell to find food, and salvia can throw them off track. This versatile herb not only adds beauty to your garden with its spiky flowers in hues of blue, purple, or pink but also acts as a squirrel repellent.
The strong fragrance of salvia keeps squirrels away, making it an excellent choice for squirrel-proofing your garden. Plant salvia near vulnerable plants or create borders with this aromatic herb to create a barrier against squirrels.
17. Snowdrops (Galanthus):
Snowdrops may be small and delicate, but they possess the power to repel squirrels. These dainty white flowers have a scent that squirrels find displeasing, keeping them away from your garden.
Plant snowdrops in clusters near vulnerable plants or along garden pathways to create a squirrel-resistant barrier. Their early bloom in late winter or early spring will bring a sense of renewal to your garden while keeping squirrels at bay.
Tips for a Squirrel-Free Garden:
Install physical barriers:
When it comes to protecting your garden from squirrels, a physical barrier can be highly effective. Install fences or use wire mesh around your garden to prevent squirrels from accessing your plants. Be sure to bury the fencing at least 12 inches deep to deter squirrels from burrowing underneath.
Opt for raised beds:
Gardening in raised beds can provide an extra layer of protection against squirrels. These elevated planters make it more difficult for squirrels to reach your plants, reducing the chances of damage. Additionally, raised beds can help improve drainage and soil quality for healthier plants overall.
Try scare tactics:
Squirrels are wary of unfamiliar objects or movements. Take advantage of this by hanging shiny objects like old CDs or aluminum foil strips near your garden. The reflective light and noise created by these items can startle squirrels and discourage them from venturing too close.
Utilize repellents:
Natural repellents can be effective in deterring squirrels from your garden. Hot pepper sprays, made by steeping hot peppers in water and straining the liquid, can create an unpleasant taste for squirrels.
Predator urine, available at garden stores, can also mimic the presence of natural predators and keep squirrels away. Remember to reapply repellents regularly, especially after rain.
Provide alternative food sources:
One way to redirect squirrels’ attention away from your garden is to provide them with alternative food sources. Set up a squirrel feeder away from your garden and stock it with their preferred foods, such as nuts or corn. By providing a dedicated food source, you can entice squirrels to stay away from your plants.
Keep your garden tidy:
Squirrels are attracted to fallen fruits, nuts, and seeds. To minimize their interest in your garden, clean up any debris promptly. Remove fallen fruits or nuts and dispose of them properly. Regularly prune trees and shrubs to reduce the availability of potential food sources and make it more challenging for squirrels to access your garden.
Remove hiding spots:
Squirrels prefer areas with ample hiding spots to feel safe and secure. Trim overgrown bushes or shrubs near your garden to eliminate potential hiding spots for squirrels. By reducing the cover available to them, you can decrease their motivation to explore your garden in the first place.
Consider companion planting:
Companion planting involves growing certain plants together to benefit one another. In the case of squirrel deterrence, consider planting garlic, chives, or other plants with strong scents near vulnerable plants. The strong odors emitted by these companion plants can mask the scents that squirrels find attractive, reducing the likelihood of damage.
With the help of these 17 squirrel-repellent plants and some clever strategies, you can reclaim your garden from those mischievous furry intruders.
By planting daffodils, alliums, marigolds, and other repellent plants, you can create an environment that squirrels find unappealing. Combine these plants with physical barriers, scare tactics, and repellents for added protection.
Remember to keep your garden tidy, remove hiding spots, and provide alternative food sources to deter squirrels further. With a little effort and some green-thumb magic, you can enjoy a squirrel-free garden and nurture your plants in peace.