Keeping squirrels and birds from treating your urban planter boxes like their personal buffet can be frustrating. These clever creatures are often after freshly turned soil, seeds, or your tender seedlings. Fortunately, you can protect your plants using a mix of humane, effective strategies.
Start with physical barriers, the most reliable method. Cover the soil with a layer of chicken wire or hardware cloth after planting. You can bend it to form a cage over the box. For specific plants, use cloches or netting supported by hoops. Ensure netting is taut to prevent tangling and check it regularly.
Make the environment less appealing. Squirrels dislike the feeling of certain textures. Try topping the soil with a thick layer of rough mulch, like cocoa bean shells or oak leaves. Birds can be deterred by visual scare devices like reflective tape, old CDs, or predator decoys, but move them frequently so pests don't get used to them.
Consider natural repellents. Sprinkle cayenne pepper or a commercial spicy repellent around plants (reapply after rain). Planting strong-smelling herbs like mint, garlic, or marigolds around the edges can also mask the scent of your vegetables. Providing a dedicated water source away from your boxes can sometimes distract birds from digging for moisture.
Finally, outsmart them with your planting choices. Use bulb cages for bulbs. Plant a few extra seeds as a sacrifice. Keep the area clean of fallen fruit or seeds. By combining these tactics—especially a solid physical barrier—you can enjoy your urban garden in peace, and the wildlife can find their lunch elsewhere.