Knowledgebase

HELP squirrels #791604

Asked May 19, 2022, 10:28 AM EDT

squirrels are digging up all my potted plants! Scoured the internet. I have added coffee grounds, red peper flakes and cayenne (all together, a very sizeable amount!!!) and they still dug them up. $100s of dollar damages. what can I do to keep them away?

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thanks for the question.

The quick answer to your question is there is relatively little you can do. Squirrels are very attracted to fresh dirt such as you probably have in your pots. But try this and it has worked for me. Cover your pots with some black plastic with a hole cut out in the middle. Also punch some holes in the plastic to allow water to get in. Yes, this may not look all that attractive but it is better than the absence of plants in the pot. Unfortunately this is the price we gardeners pay in trying to grow things. However perhaps the following may give you some ideas:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/protect-containers-from-squirrels.htm - :~:text=Mix something into the potting,2 tablespoons (29.5 mL.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96RHmjT9m0U

https://plantophiles.com/houseplant-tips/squirrels-away-from-potted-plants/

https://thepracticalplanter.com/how-to-keep-squirrels-out-of-potted-plants/

Good Luck!!

An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 19, 2022, 10:49 AM EDT

Loading ...