Gardeners invest time, effort, and money in planting flower bulbs, eagerly anticipating the blooming of colorful and fragrant flowers. However, squirrels, with their sharp claws and insatiable curiosity, can prove to be quite the challenge. If you’ve ever found yourself frustratedly asking how to keep squirrels from digging up bulbs, this article is your solution. We’ll explore effective strategies and measures you can adopt to protect your precious bulbs from these furry invaders.
Understanding the Squirrel Behavior
Before we delve into prevention techniques, it’s essential to understand why squirrels are attracted to your bulbs in the first place. Squirrels primarily dig up bulbs not because they want to harm your garden but because they’re looking for food. The bulbs are a rich source of nutrition, especially during the fall when squirrels are preparing for the winter months.
How to Keep Squirrels from Digging Up Bulbs: Proven Techniques
1. Choose Bulbs Wisely
Not all bulbs are created equal in the eyes of squirrels. They have a strong preference for certain bulbs like tulips and crocus. On the other hand, daffodils, alliums, and fritillaries are less appealing due to their taste. Planting bulbs that squirrels find distasteful can be a natural deterrent.
2. Use Natural Repellents
Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes, garlic powder, or black pepper around the freshly planted bulbs. These spices deter squirrels without harming your plants.
3. Mesh and Chicken Wire
After planting the bulbs, place a layer of mesh or chicken wire over the area and secure it with stakes. This physical barrier prevents squirrels from reaching the bulbs. Once the shoots appear in spring, you can remove the mesh.
4. Plant Deeply
Squirrels tend to dig up bulbs that are closer to the surface. Ensure that you plant bulbs at the recommended depth or even slightly deeper.
5. Use a Bulb Cage
Available at gardening stores, bulb cages are wire enclosures into which you place your bulbs before planting. They allow the plants to grow through the gaps but keep the bulbs safe from digging creatures.
6. Interplanting
Mix your bulb plantings with plants that squirrels dislike, such as garlic, onions, or chives. The scent of these plants can act as a deterrent.
7. Provide Alternative Food Sources
Set up a squirrel feeder in another part of your yard stocked with corn or nuts. This might distract them from your bulbs.
8. Use Commercial Repellents
There are various sprays and granules available at gardening centers designed to repel squirrels. These usually contain bitter or spicy ingredients that squirrels dislike.
9. Employ Scare Tactics
Devices like motion-activated sprinklers or ultrasonic repellents can deter squirrels. Remember to move these around periodically, so squirrels don’t get used to them.
10. Garden Netting
Drape a layer of garden netting over the area where you’ve planted bulbs. This can prevent squirrels from digging without hindering the growth of your plants.
The Role of Natural Predators
Encouraging the presence of natural squirrel predators in your garden can also keep the squirrel population in check. Birds of prey, cats, and even large dogs can deter squirrels. However, remember that some of these animals might also pose risks to other wildlife or plants, so always consider the broader impact on your garden ecosystem.
Conclusion
Squirrels, though adorable, can wreak havoc in a gardener’s paradise. By understanding their behavior and adopting a combination of the techniques mentioned above, you can effectively answer the age-old question of how to keep squirrels from digging up bulbs. Remember, consistency is key, and a multi-faceted approach usually works best to ensure that your bulbs bloom into beautiful flowers, undisturbed by the curious paws of squirrels.
