Keep Squirrels, Chipmunks And Rabbits Out Of Your Spring Garden

If you’ve ever found your tulips dug up or your petunias mysteriously missing petals, there’s a good chance some furry little foragers have made a snack out of your hard work. Squirrel and chipmunk activity peaks in spring and summer, as these seasons offer the most food and nesting opportunities, and that's when your garden is in full bloom. In spring, they start to dig to find bulbs and buried food, so now is the prime time to tackle the issue head on.

Certain spring weather, like storms or droughts, can even make squirrel and chipmunk problems worse as the animals face pressure to gather what they can. Fortunately, you don’t need traps or harsh chemicals to solve the problem—there are plenty of humane ways to deter these curious critters.

1. Use Natural Repellents

Many gardeners swear by strong-smelling substances, like apple cider vinegar, cayenne pepper or garlic, to keep rodents away. My neighbor also uses motion-activated sprinklers to douse anything that comes into his yard, which is…one way of doing things.

2. Plant Strategically

Believe it or not, some plants actually repel rodents, like daffodils, hyacinths and marigolds. You can also take a cue from Tip #1 and plant strong smelling vegetables and herbs, like garlic or mint. Mixing these into your garden can help create a protective barrier.

3. Cover The Soil

Bare soil is like an open invitation for digging. Try laying down mulch, gravel, or chicken wire just beneath the surface.

It may seem counterintuitive, but setting up a feeder filled with sunflower seeds or corn at the far end of your yard could help redirect attention from unwanted visitors.

5. Keep Things Tidy

Squirrels and chipmunks love cluttered, cozy hiding spots. Clear out brush piles, keep wood stacked neatly, and trim low-hanging branches.

With a little planning, seasonal awareness, and a few clever tricks, you can protect your garden all spring and summer long.

Weather.com lead editor Jenn Jordan explores how weather and climate weave through our daily lives, shape our routines and leave lasting impacts on our communities.

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