How to Keep Squirrels Out of Landscaping: Effective Strategies to Protect Your Garden from Squirrels

Squirrels, while charming in nature, can wreak havoc on your carefully curated landscaping. From digging up bulbs and gnawing on plants to raiding bird feeders, their antics often conflict with the design vision for your outdoor space. As a designer, I always approach such challenges with both the functionality and aesthetics of your landscape in mind. Here’s how you can deter squirrels effectively without compromising your garden design.

1. Physical Barriers: Install mesh or hardware cloth over soil where you’ve planted bulbs. Raised garden beds with fitted wire lids can prevent squirrels from accessing specific plants but still blend with your landscape style if you use materials and colors consistent with your garden’s theme.

2. Repellents and Scents: Commercial squirrel repellents are available, but natural deterrents like crushed red pepper, garlic, or blood meal sprinkled around vulnerable plants can discourage these critters. Make sure the chosen method aligns with your garden’s overall health and purpose, especially if you have pets or children.

3. Design-Focused Plant Choices: Integrate plants that squirrels dislike, such as daffodils, alliums, and hyacinths, around susceptible areas. Not only do these plants add varying textures and colors, but they also serve as natural deterrents—balancing beauty and utility.

4. Bird Feeder Strategies: If bird feeders attract squirrels, position them at least 10 feet from potential launching points (trees, fences), or opt for squirrel-proof feeder designs. These feeders come in styles, finishes, and materials that can complement your landscaping vision.

5. Distraction Zones: Consider creating a designated area with peanuts or corn far from your main landscaping features. This attracts squirrels to a specific spot, keeping them away from prized plantings. When executed thoughtfully, a distraction zone can blend seamlessly into a naturalistic garden concept.

As a designer, I find that using a home designer tool can help visualize and test layout changes or additions, like fences, new plant beds, or dedicated squirrel feeding areas. This equips you to maintain the integrity of your landscape design while solving the squirrel dilemma effectively.

Tips 1:

Plant high-value bulbs within wire cages beneath the soil to allow roots to grow but block squirrel access. Choose mulch materials like pine needles, which squirrels dislike, to further discourage digging.

FAQ

Q: What plants will squirrels avoid in my landscape?

A: Squirrels tend to avoid daffodils, alliums, hyacinths, and fritillarias—these can act as protective borders around more vulnerable plants.

Q: Are motion-activated devices effective against squirrels?

A: Yes, devices that emit noise or bursts of water can startle squirrels and are often effective when used alongside other methods.

Q: Can landscape design itself help keep squirrels away?

A: Absolutely. Strategic placement of deterrent plants, thoughtful feeder locations, and consideration of barriers can be integrated into your design plan.

Q: How can I prevent squirrels from eating bird seed?

A: Use squirrel-proof feeders, baffle devices on feeder poles, and place feeders away from jumping points like trees or fences.

Q: Is it possible to coexist with squirrels without constant damage to my landscaping?

A: Yes, by balancing deterrents with attraction strategies (like distraction zones) and adapting your design, you can enjoy wildlife with minimal impact on your landscape.