.jpeg?width=1200&auto=webp&trim=376,0,157,0#)
How to keep squirrels at bay AND add a touch of colour to your garden this summer for less than £3
THEY may seem cute with their fluffy tails, but don’t let squirrels charming appearance fool you.
From digging up freshly planted bulbs to nibbling on fruit, chewing through plant stems, and raiding vegetable patches, playful squirrels can be a gardener’s worst nightmare.
Luckily, protecting your garden from these cheeky pests doesn’t have to involve pricey deterrents or harsh chemicals that can ruin your lawn.
According to House Digest, planting one type of flower in your garden beds and borders can help keep pesky squirrels at bay.
These vibrant, aromatic flowers will not only immediately brighten up your landscape but also emit a scent that this furry animal hates.
What’s more, there’s also no need to fork out a fortune on this plant – as green-fingered Brits can snap up gorgeous marigolds for less than £3.
Not only do marigolds boast vibrant golden blooms, but they also emit a potent aroma that squirrels find off-putting.
According to experts, this scent interferes with their sense of smell, making it challenging for hungry squirrels to rummage through the garden for their next meal.
If you’re keen to test this natural method to ward off squirrels, it’s best to choose a sunny spot in your garden as these flowers require at least six hours of sunlight daily.
For best results – and an epic garden glow-up – sow your seeds approximately six to 12 inches apart and once they’ve taken root, ensure they’re regularly watered.
While they can withstand drought, they’ll thrive with consistent watering.
They also need occasional deadheading to maintain their health.
This affordable flower – retailing for just £2.80 at B&Q – is excellent for strategic planting.
If gardeners position them between rows of vegetables or next to fruit-bearing plants that squirrels target, it will keep them protected from the pesky pests.
If you’re short on space in your garden, marigolds also make fantastic companion plants in pots alongside tomatoes, peppers and herbs.
Keep pests out all summer
IF you want to ensure that your home is pest free this summer, here's what you need to know.
Hornets and wasps – hate the smell of peppermint oil so spraying this liberally around your patio or balcony can help to keep them at bay.
Moths – acidic household white vinegar is effective for deterring moths. Soak some kitchen roll in vinegar and leave it in your wardrobe as a deterrent.
Flying ants – herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, mint, chilli pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cloves, or garlic act as deterrents.
Mosquitoes – plants, herbs and essential oil fragrances can help deter mozzies inside and out. Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.
If you feel like you need additional squirrel deterrent planting, it’s worth considering other strongly scented plants such as mint or nasturtium.
The layering of smells forms a robust barrier against the noses of the furry animal.
Another scent, we reported earlier, is using coffee grounds.
Pest control expert Jordan Foster said: “Spread coffee grounds in your borders as squirrels hate the smell of them and will run away and won’t come back.”
The expert also advised adding water to the grounds, to make sure they stick, and to enhance the odour.
Before applying to the whole of your garden, you should test a small area to ensure it doesn’t harm plants.
Coffee grounds can also be effective at harming other pests, such as cats and rats.
Alongside planting deterrents, households should also maintain their garden tidy and free from food leftovers – as these will attract squirrels, rats and mice to consume what they desire.
