Gardeners often find their sunflowers targeted by local wildlife. Squirrels frequently eat sunflowers, becoming a nuisance for those cultivating these plants. These agile rodents are adept at finding food sources, and sunflowers, with their energy-rich seeds, often become a prime target.
Sunflower Parts Squirrels Consume
Squirrels primarily seek seeds within sunflower heads, especially when mature. When the sunflower’s head turns brown and dry, signaling ripeness, it becomes vulnerable to squirrel activity. Their consumption is not limited to seeds; squirrels may also eat young shoots, tender leaves, or flower buds, particularly if other food sources are scarce. They can cause significant damage by gnawing on stalks or cutting down entire flower heads to access seeds.
Why Squirrels Seek Out Sunflowers
Squirrels are omnivores with a varied, seasonal diet and are opportunistic feeders. Sunflower seeds are a highly attractive food source due to their rich nutritional content, providing essential fats and protein. These seeds offer a concentrated, easy-to-find meal, particularly valuable for squirrels needing to build energy reserves, especially during colder months. While sunflower seeds can supplement a squirrel’s diet, they should not be the main component, as squirrels require diverse nutrients to remain healthy.
Strategies for Protecting Sunflowers
Protecting sunflowers from squirrels involves deterrents and management techniques. Physical barriers are effective methods to prevent squirrels from accessing plants. Cover young sunflowers with chicken wire or mesh netting to shield them. Larger plants or flower heads can be protected with wire cages or individual covers like brown paper bags or nylon mesh. For seedlings, an inverted plastic berry basket offers temporary protection.
Various repellents can also discourage squirrels due to strong smells or tastes they dislike. Capsaicin, found in cayenne pepper or hot sauce, is a common deterrent applied as a spray or sprinkled on blooms. Other natural repellents include:
Peppermint oil
Coffee grounds
Garlic
Onion
Human hair
These sprays or powders often require reapplication, especially after rain, to maintain effectiveness.
Distraction feeding can divert squirrels’ attention from your sunflowers. Place a separate squirrel feeder with alternative foods like corn, nuts, or sunflower seeds in a different yard area to satisfy their foraging needs. This provides an easier, more accessible food source, making your sunflowers less appealing. Planting sunflowers away from easy access points like fences or trees also reduces squirrel visits. Promptly harvesting mature sunflower seeds removes the food source before squirrels can claim it.