Gardening can be fun. You grow plants and flowers. But sometimes, critters visit. They can eat your plants. This makes gardening hard. In this article, we will learn how to keep those critters away.
What Are Critters?
Critters are small animals. They can be cute, but they can also be a problem. Common garden critters include:
- Rabbits
- Squirrels
- Deer
- Raccoons
- Insects like aphids and slugs
These animals want to eat your plants. They can damage your hard work. It is important to keep them away.
Why Do Critters Come to Your Garden?
Critters come to gardens for food. They find tasty fruits and vegetables. They also look for shelter. Some animals find places to hide. Your garden can be a safe home for them.
Ways to Keep Critters Away
There are many ways to keep critters out. Here are some simple tips:
1. Fencing
A good fence can help. Use a strong fence to keep animals out. Make it tall enough. A fence should be at least 3 to 4 feet high. Bury the bottom of the fence. This stops rabbits and other animals from digging under.
2. Use Netting
Netting is another good idea. It can protect plants from birds and insects. Cover your plants with netting. Make sure it is secure. This way, critters cannot reach your plants.
3. Scare Tactics
Scaring critters can work too. Use items that make noise. Hang wind chimes in your garden. You can also use shiny objects. Old CDs or aluminum foil can scare animals away.
4. Plant Strong Smells
Some plants have strong smells. Critters do not like these smells. Plant herbs like mint and basil. You can also plant marigolds. These flowers can help keep pests away.
5. Natural Repellents
You can use natural repellents. Some people use garlic or cayenne pepper. Spray a mixture on your plants. This can help keep critters away. They do not like the taste.
6. Keep The Garden Clean
Keeping your garden clean is important. Remove fallen fruits and vegetables. This can attract animals. Also, clean up any trash. A clean garden is less inviting for critters.
7. Use Traps Carefully
Traps can be used for some animals. But be careful. Make sure to check local laws. Use traps that do not harm animals. Release them far away from your garden.
Credit: www.countryliving.com
How to Deal with Specific Critters
Different critters need different ways to keep them away. Here are some tips for specific animals:
Rabbits
Rabbits love to eat greens. A strong fence works well. You can also use a barrier around your plants. Use chicken wire or hardware cloth. Make sure it is buried a bit underground. Learn How to Keep Rabbits Out of a Garden
Squirrels
Squirrels are clever. They can climb trees and fences. To keep squirrels out, use tall fences. Place bird feeders far away from your garden. This makes it harder for them to visit.
Deer
Deer can be very hungry. They can eat a lot of plants. Use tall fences that deer cannot jump over. Some people use deer repellents. These sprays can keep deer away. learn How to Keep Deer Out of a Garden
Raccoons
Raccoons are smart too. They can open containers. Keep trash cans closed and secure. Use locks on your compost bin. Raccoons are attracted to food, so keep it hidden.
Insects
Insects like aphids and slugs can be tricky. You can handpick them off plants. Use soapy water to spray on plants. This will kill many pests. You can also attract good bugs that eat bad bugs. You can also run How to Keep bugs Out of a Garden
Using Companion Planting
Companion planting is smart. It means planting different plants together. Some plants help each other grow. They can also protect each other from pests. For example:
- Tomatoes and basil grow well together.
- Marigolds can keep nematodes away.
- Garlic can help protect roses.
Maintaining Your Garden
Keeping your garden healthy helps. Healthy plants are less likely to attract pests. Water your plants regularly. Give them good soil and nutrients. Make sure to prune dead leaves. This keeps plants strong and healthy.
Credit: cedarcraft.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Prevent Pests In My Garden?
Use physical barriers like fences, nets, or row covers. These protect plants from insects and animals.
What Natural Repellents Keep Critters Away?
Plants like mint, lavender, and marigolds repel many pests. Consider using these in your garden.
Do Certain Plants Attract Beneficial Insects?
Yes, flowers like daisies and yarrow attract pollinators. They help your garden thrive.
How To Secure My Garden From Rabbits?
Install a tall fence around your garden. Bury the bottom to stop burrowing.
Conclusion
Keeping critters out of your garden takes work. But it is worth it. Use these tips to protect your plants. A healthy garden can bring joy. You can enjoy fresh vegetables and beautiful flowers. Remember, a little effort can go a long way. Happy gardening!
