Squirrels often treat ripening apples as a personal pantry, resulting in significant loss as they frequently take only a bite or two before discarding the fruit. The most effective protection strategies involve a combination of physical barriers, sensory deterrents, and modifications to the environment around the tree. Implementing non-lethal methods early in the season offers the best chance to keep your apples safe until they are ready for picking.
Physical Exclusion Barriers
Physical exclusion is the most reliable method, as it creates a direct, tangible block between the squirrel and the fruit. This approach focuses on preventing access to the fruit itself or the entire tree structure.
Individual protection of developing apples through fruit bagging is an effective strategy. This involves slipping a small, durable bag—made from fine mesh or specialized nylon—over a young apple when it reaches about half an inch in diameter. The bag is secured tightly around the stem, creating a localized barrier squirrels cannot easily penetrate. While labor-intensive, this method provides near-complete protection for the specific apples that are covered.
For larger-scale protection, full tree netting can be draped over the entire canopy once the fruit has set. The net must be made of a durable material, like high-density polyethylene, with a mesh size small enough to prevent squirrels from passing through. Installation requires securing the netting tightly around the trunk at the base, ensuring no gaps exist. This method can make access to the tree difficult and requires regular checks to ensure no other wildlife becomes accidentally trapped.
To prevent squirrels from climbing up the trunk in the first place, installing a trunk baffle is a proven technique. A baffle is a smooth, cone-shaped or cylindrical barrier made of slick metal or plastic that is wrapped around the trunk five to six feet above the ground. The smooth surface prevents the squirrel from gaining traction, causing them to slide off when they attempt to climb. This barrier is only effective if the apple tree stands alone and squirrels cannot jump onto the branches from nearby structures or other trees.
Sensory Deterrents and Repellents
Sensory deterrents rely on creating an unpleasant taste or smell, or a perceived threat, to discourage squirrels from lingering near the apples. These methods are typically less permanent than physical barriers and require diligent reapplication.
Taste-based repellents commonly contain capsaicin, the compound that gives chili peppers their heat. When mixed into a spray solution, capsaicin creates an irritating sensation in the squirrel’s mouth or nose upon contact without causing lasting harm. Since this substance is not water-resistant, you must reapply the spray frequently, especially after rainfall, to maintain its effectiveness.
Scent-based deterrents, such as commercial predator urine products, attempt to trigger the squirrel’s natural fear response. Fox or coyote urine is applied around the base of the tree to simulate the presence of a predator. However, this method is inconsistent, as urban squirrels may not recognize the scent as a threat and can quickly become accustomed to the smell.
Visual and auditory deterrents, like fake owls or reflective flash tape, offer a temporary solution by suggesting a threat or creating a startling effect. Devices that incorporate movement or reflective surfaces are initially effective at scaring squirrels away. Unfortunately, squirrels are intelligent and quickly habituate to static threats, meaning these deterrents must be moved regularly—ideally every few days—to prevent the animals from realizing the threat is harmless.
Modifying the Immediate Environment
Making changes to the area immediately surrounding the apple tree can significantly reduce its appeal and limit the avenues of attack for squirrels. This preventative approach focuses on removing easy access points and eliminating alternative food sources.
A key step is eliminating “jumping-off” points by pruning branches that extend to within ten feet of fences, power lines, or other structures. Squirrels are adept jumpers, so maintaining a clear space around the canopy forces them to rely solely on climbing the trunk, where a baffle can stop them. Regular pruning also keeps the tree manageable, making it easier to install protective netting.
Prompt removal of fallen apples is important, as fruit on the ground attracts squirrels and teaches them the area is a reliable food source. Allowing damaged or dropped apples to accumulate encourages continuous foraging activity at the base of the tree. You should also secure or remove other common attractants, such as bird feeders, pet food left outside, or accessible garbage cans. Bird feeders, in particular, draw large numbers of squirrels into the vicinity, increasing the likelihood they will target your fruit.