Gardening expert reveals five bulbs you should plant now that squirrels absolutely hate
Frustrated by squirrels wreaking havoc on your garden? A gardening expert has shared a clever trick to keep these furry pests from uprooting your carefully planted spring bulbs and ruining your efforts.
October and November are the prime months to plant bulbs for spring, but with this timing comes a familiar issue: squirrels. These creatures often dig up bulbs as part of their foraging routine in preparation for the winter months. According to Chris, the Ornamental Gardens supervisor at The Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall, this becomes a significant problem during the autumn planting season.
“Squirrels are on the hunt for food as their natural supplies start to dwindle,” Chris explains. “Much of their diet consists of protein-rich sources, like nuts and seeds, and bulbs fall into this category.” As the weather cools, these agile creatures become even more determined to stock up for the colder months, often targeting bulbs in the process.
However, all is not lost. Chris assures gardeners that certain bulb varieties are less likely to attract squirrels. Daffodils, for instance, are one bulb that squirrels typically avoid. Hyacinths, fritillarias, alliums, and snowdrops also tend to stay off their radar. The strong odor of onions, which is common in many of these bulbs, acts as a natural deterrent.
For added protection, Chris suggests a practical solution: placing chicken wire over the pots. “After planting your bulbs, simply secure a layer of wire on top of the pot, crimping it tightly to prevent the squirrels from digging them up,” he recommends. This simple measure can help keep your garden safe from these persistent creatures, ensuring your spring flowers bloom undisturbed.
