Key Takeaways
Seven methods can help keep squirrels out of potted plants without harming them.
- Natural repellents like cayenne pepper, vinegar, and predator urine can deter squirrels.
- Place large rocks or chicken wire over the soil to create a physical barrier.
- Use movable pots or rearrange them often to confuse squirrels.
- Avoid using potting soil with food sources like nuts that attract squirrels.
- Provide squirrels an alternative food source away from your pots.
- Spray pots with a repellent like hot sauce or garlic spray.
- Place pots near a dog house or high-traffic area to scare squirrels away.
Table of Contents
7 Proven Strategies to Protect Your Potted Plants from Squirrels
The following seven methods have been tested and proven to work – some better than others – by me and my gardener friends.
YMMV, but I do warn people that squirrels (and other pests) are notorious in breeding and coming back; it is a long battle.
Natural repellents
Sprinkle cayenne pepper, black pepper, or hot sauce around your plants. The capsaicin in these substances irritates squirrels’ noses and deters them (University of Minnesota Extension, 2021). Coffee grounds also deter squirrels due to their strong smell (Michigan State University Extension, 2021).
Physical barriers
Place chicken wire, hardware cloth, or mesh over the soil surface to prevent digging. For added protection, extend the barrier a few inches below the soil (Penn State Extension, 2021). Large stones can also deter squirrels (University of New Hampshire Extension, 2017).
Odor deterrents
Soak cotton balls in apple cider vinegar, peppermint oil, or predator urine and place them in the pots (The Humane Society of the United States, 2021). Essential oil sprays can also repel squirrels (National Wildlife Federation, 2021).
Companion planting
Plant mint, marigolds, or nasturtiums near your potted plants. These strong-smelling plants can deter squirrels (Michigan State University Extension, 2020). Alliums like garlic and onions are also effective (The Old Farmer’s Almanac, 2021).
Pot selection and placement
Use heavier pots that are difficult for squirrels to knock over. Avoid placing pots near trees, fences, or structures that squirrels can easily access (University of Maryland Extension, 2020).
Also, and this may sound crazy, but if you simply regularly rotate and move your pot locations, it can confuse squirrels.
Motion-activated deterrents
Install motion-activated or ultrasonic devices near your pots, like this one. These startle squirrels when triggered, discouraging them from approaching (Colorado State University Extension, 2017).
Or a simple solar powered garden or lawn wind spinner wheel is not only good looking but it completely scares off pesky pests.
Providing alternative food and Water sources
This option is the “if you can’t beat them, join them” strategy.
Set up a squirrel feeder away from your potted plants or garden. Offer corn cobs, nuts, or seeds to distract squirrels from digging in your pots (Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, 2021).
A birdbath or water source can also divert their attention (National Wildlife Federation, 2021).
FAQ
References
Lindsey Hyland grew up in Arizona where she studied at the University of Arizona’s Controlled Environment Agriculture Center. She continued her gardening education by working on organic farms in both rural and urban settings. She started UrbanOrganicYield.com to share gardening tips and tactics. She’s happy to talk about succulents and houseplants or vegetables and herbs – or just about anything in a backyard garden or hydroponics garden.
