Ornamental plants, such as the hibiscus with its vibrant blooms, are often targeted by garden pests. Many gardeners are surprised to discover that the culprit behind missing flowers and chewed buds is the common garden squirrel. Squirrels do eat hibiscus, consuming the soft, newly formed parts of the plant out of necessity or opportunism.
The Squirrel’s Hibiscus Menu
Squirrels primarily target the most succulent parts of the hibiscus, specifically the flower buds and the fully opened blossoms. These parts are appealing because they contain high moisture content and sugary nectar, making them a readily available source of hydration. This behavior is noticeable during periods of drought or intense summer heat when typical water sources are scarce.
The consumption of hibiscus is generally a supplemental feeding behavior rather than a primary dietary requirement. Squirrels often strip the buds or clip the flowers off entirely, leaving behind telltale signs of damage. They may also occasionally chew on young shoots or leaves when other food sources are unavailable.
Effective Deterrence Strategies
Applying taste and scent repellents directly to the plant is an effective strategy for preventing damage. Repellents containing capsaicin, the compound that gives chili peppers their heat, deter squirrels with their strong, unpleasant flavor without causing harm. A simple homemade spray can be created by mixing hot sauce, water, and dish soap to help the solution adhere to the foliage.
Physical exclusion is another method for keeping hibiscus blooms intact, especially for smaller or potted plants. Covering the hibiscus with fine netting or placing a wire mesh cage around the plant physically blocks access. For larger garden beds, a low perimeter fence, buried a few inches into the soil, can discourage squirrels from digging and approaching the plants.
Habitat modification reduces the appeal of the hibiscus. Since squirrels often seek out the moist flowers for hydration, providing an alternative source of fresh water, such as a ground-level bird bath, can distract them. Strong-smelling natural substances, including commercial granular repellents, blood meal, or spreading coffee grounds around the base, make the area unappealing to forage.
Understanding Squirrel Diet
Squirrels are classified as omnivores, meaning their diet consists of a wide range of plant and animal matter. Their preferred diet centers around high-energy foods, including nuts, seeds, acorns, tree buds, and various fungi. They spend a significant amount of time foraging, caching food for later consumption during leaner periods of the year.
This reliance on stored food means that when caches are depleted or new food growth is limited, such as in early spring or late summer, they become opportunistic feeders. During these transitional times, squirrels readily turn to secondary food sources like flowers, bulbs, fruits, and insects to supplement their nutritional and caloric needs. The consumption of hibiscus flowers is a direct result of this flexible feeding strategy, driven by seasonal scarcity.