How to Keep Squirrels out of Flower Pots

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You’ll have to get creative to stop squirrels from digging in your pots.

“How do I keep squirrels out of the plants in my flower pots?” asks Birds & Blooms reader Stacey Lauderdale of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Gardening expert Melinda Myers says, “Squirrels are often destructive pests of container plantings. They have grown accustomed to humans and have all day to find ways to overcome barriers. It will take a variety of tactics, some luck and persistence on your part to keep them away and win the battle.

Try covering new plantings with fine netting or floating row covers that allow air, light and water to reach the plants. These barriers may discourage the squirrels from digging and send them off looking for other dining locations. The squirrels may lose interest and move on. Once plants are established, remove the covering and monitor for squirrel damage.”

Groundhogs can be a problem in the garden, too. Get expert tips to deter them.

Squirrel Enjoys A Sunflower In The Garden .Courtesy Tony Quinn
Squirrel eating a sunflower in the garden

Melinda continues, “Some gardeners report success with cayenne pepper. Look for repellents labeled for squirrel control. Use them before the critters start digging, apply as directed and reapply as needed. Scare tactics may also help, such as motion-sensitive sprinklers and pinwheels. If one approach doesn’t work, try another. It can be a tough battle. Do your best to be patient and persistent.”

Keep squirrels away from bird seed with squirrel-proof bird feeders.

Stop Squirrels From Digging up Flower Bulbs

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Squirrels are less likely to disturb daffodil bulbs.

“Every year I plant daffodils and tulips. Before the ground freezes, something digs them up and leaves the bulbs near the hole. What can I do?” asks Birds & Blooms reader Caroline Hatley of Barnstead, New Hampshire.

Melinda says, “Most animals leave daffodils alone. Try planting them away from crocus, tulips and other critter favorites to prevent accidental digging. Some gardeners have success treating the bulbs with commercial or homemade repellents before putting them in the ground. Or you can physically protect tulips and daffodils with a flower bulb cage. Place the bulbs in the cage, plant at the proper depth, then cover the bulbs and cage with soil.”

Another solution: “Make your own barrier. Dig a hole for planting, set bulbs in place and cover with an inch or two of soil. Lay chicken wire over the top and sides of the bulb planting, then fill the remainder of the hole with soil,” Melinda says.

Learn how to get rid of chipmunks and keep them out of your garden.

Other Animals That Dig up Flower Bulbs

Backyard Tip: If something’s digging up your bulbs and eating your flowers, squirrels are likely suspects, but other culprits might be skunks, voles, chipmunks, mice or rabbits. See if you can identify the tracks around the hole.

Also, grow these deer-resistant bulbs for spring blooms.