Squirrels pose a significant challenge to gardeners, particularly those using raised garden beds with loose, rich soil. These rodents dig to bury nuts and seeds, forage for insects or bulbs, or simply enjoy the freshly turned earth. This digging results in shallow holes and uprooted seedlings, making effective deterrence a primary concern.
Physical Barriers and Exclusion Methods
Physical exclusion is often the most reliable method for protecting raised garden beds from squirrels. This strategy involves creating a complete barrier that prevents the animal from accessing the soil or plants. A highly effective method is the use of galvanized hardware cloth, a sturdy metal mesh. Using a mesh size of one-half inch (1/2″) is recommended, as this prevents squirrels from squeezing through while still allowing water and air to pass freely.
Line the bottom of the raised bed with hardware cloth before adding soil to prevent squirrels from tunneling up from underneath. For above-ground protection, construct a full enclosure, often called a cage or hoop house, over the top of the bed. This enclosure should utilize the same small-mesh hardware cloth or sturdy plastic netting and be securely fastened to the sides of the raised bed. Eliminate any gaps where the agile squirrels might gain entry.
If a full cage is not desirable, use temporary row covers or netting secured directly over young plants or ripening crops. This netting must be pulled taut and anchored firmly to the perimeter of the raised bed using clamps or staples. Keeping the netting taut prevents birds or other small animals from becoming entangled. For a simpler surface barrier, cut sections of the 1/2-inch hardware cloth to lay flat on the soil, cutting holes for established plants to grow through.
Sensory Repellents and Taste Deterrents
Sensory repellents appeal to a squirrel’s strong sense of smell and taste, making the garden bed area unappealing without causing harm. Capsaicin, the compound that gives chili peppers their heat, is an effective deterrent because squirrels dislike the intense spicy flavor and smell. You can sprinkle dried cayenne pepper or chili powder directly onto the soil surface, or apply a homemade spray mixture to the leaves of non-edible plants.
Commercial capsaicin sprays and granular repellents are available, often formulated to be rain-resistant, though reapplication is necessary. Always test a small area first to ensure the mixture does not damage your plants. Strong odors can also mimic the presence of a predator, such as commercially available fox or coyote urine granules. These create a psychological deterrent by signaling danger to the foraging squirrel.
These repellents are not a permanent solution, and their effectiveness diminishes over time, especially after significant rainfall or irrigation. To maintain the effect, granular products should be reapplied every one to two weeks, and sprays may need more frequent application. Companion planting with strong-smelling herbs, such as mint or marigolds, can also provide a mild, natural deterrent barrier around the perimeter of the bed.
Modifying the Garden Environment
Adjusting the immediate area surrounding your raised beds can significantly reduce their appeal to squirrels. The first step involves eliminating external food sources that draw squirrels to your yard. This includes promptly removing any fallen fruit, nuts, or seeds from nearby trees. Bird feeders are significant attractants, so switching the seed type to safflower, which birds enjoy but squirrels dislike, can help reduce their presence.
Avoid using deep, loose organic mulches like shredded bark or straw directly on the soil surface of your raised beds. Squirrels find this material ideal for burying their cached food, which is a primary reason for their digging. Instead, cover the soil with materials that are uncomfortable for them to walk or dig through. A layer of small, coarse gravel, decorative stones, pine cones, or thorny branches makes the surface less inviting for caching behavior.
Keeping the garden area tidy also discourages habitation. Securely closing trash can lids and ensuring compost bins are closed prevents access to food scraps. By removing these readily available resources and making the soil surface physically difficult to manipulate, you reduce the incentive for a squirrel to spend time in your cultivated space.