Squirrels are a common concern for gardeners, often interacting with plants like orchids. This guide explores the relationship between squirrels and orchids, offering insights into their behavior and practical solutions for safeguarding your plants.
Do Squirrels Eat Orchids
Squirrels are opportunistic feeders, and while orchids are not a primary component of their diet, these agile creatures may indeed consume parts of the plant. They might eat orchid blooms, or chew on leaves and flower spikes, especially if other preferred food sources are scarce. Sometimes, they may even bite off buds or flowers without fully consuming them, simply dropping them.
The reasons behind this behavior can vary. Squirrels might be seeking moisture, testing new food sources out of curiosity, or acting on instinct when their usual diet is less available. In some instances, they may target pseudobulbs, which are the swollen stems of certain orchid types, possibly for their moisture content or stored nutrients. Although orchids are not typically listed as a favorite food, their accessibility can make them an easy target for these foraging animals.
Signs of Squirrel Damage to Orchids
Identifying squirrel damage on orchids involves observing specific visual cues on the plant. You might notice chewed edges on leaves or flowers, which often appear ragged rather than cleanly cut. Missing buds or entire flowers can also indicate squirrel activity, as they sometimes remove these parts completely. Squirrels may also leave gnaw marks on pseudobulbs, which are bulbous storage organs found on many orchid species.
Another common sign of squirrel interference is disturbed potting medium. Squirrels are known for digging and burying food, and they may inadvertently or intentionally dig in orchid pots, pulling plants from their containers. This can result in displaced plants, scattered bark, or even exposed roots. Differentiating squirrel damage from that caused by other pests involves looking for these characteristic gnawing patterns and signs of digging rather than the clean cuts typical of some insect or slug damage.
Protecting Orchids from Squirrels
Protecting orchids from squirrel damage involves a combination of strategies, focusing on deterrence and physical barriers.
Physical Barriers
One effective method is physical exclusion, such as netting or cages around individual plants or entire orchid displays. Wire mesh fencing with small openings can be installed around garden beds or containers; burying it 6 to 8 inches deep prevents squirrels from burrowing underneath. For potted orchids, a piece of chicken wire cut to fit inside the pot can deter digging while allowing the plant to grow through.
Scent and Taste Repellents
Scent and taste-based repellents can also be used, though their effectiveness may vary and require reapplication, especially after rain. Squirrels reportedly dislike strong odors like cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce, which can be sprinkled around plants or mixed into a spray. Peppermint oil, garlic oil, and apple cider vinegar are other strong-smelling substances for sprays or cotton balls placed near orchids. Some commercial repellents also utilize predator urine scents to create an unwelcoming environment.
Environmental Modification
Modifying the environment can also help deter squirrels. Removing alternative food sources like fallen fruit and securing trash cans makes your yard less appealing. Motion-activated sprinklers can startle and discourage squirrels with sudden bursts of water. Strategic placement of orchids, such as elevating them or positioning them away from easy jumping points like fences or tree branches, can reduce access. Planting companion plants squirrels tend to avoid, such as alliums, marigolds, or mint, around your orchids may also offer a degree of protection.