It can be incredibly frustrating to find your beautiful urban garden turned into a digging ground by your beloved pet. Whether it's a dog or a cat, the behavior is natural for them but destructive for your plants. Fortunately, you can protect your planter boxes with a few effective and humane strategies.
First, consider creating a physical barrier. Placing a layer of chicken wire or hardware cloth on top of the soil is a highly effective method. You can cut it to fit the planter box and simply lift it when you need to water. The texture is unpleasant for paws and discourages digging instantly. For larger areas, decorative rocks or prickly pine cones placed around your plants can also act as a great deterrent.
Another approach is to use scents that pets dislike. Cats, for example, hate the smell of citrus. Scattering fresh orange or lemon peels on the soil surface can keep them away. For both cats and dogs, you can plant strong-smelling herbs like rosemary, lavender, or lemon thyme around the edges of your boxes. These not only repel pets with their scent but also add to your garden's beauty and utility.
Providing an alternative is a key part of a long-term solution. If your dog is digging out of boredom or to find a cool spot, ensure they have a designated digging pit, like a small sandbox in a shaded area. Bury their favorite toys there and reward them with praise and treats when they use it. This redirects their natural instinct to an appropriate place.
Finally, never underestimate the power of positive reinforcement and supervision. When you see your pet approaching the planter boxes, calmly redirect their attention with a toy or a command. Reward them for ignoring the planters. Consistency is crucial. With a combination of barriers, scent deterrents, and positive training, you and your pets can enjoy a thriving urban garden together.