Squirrels, those bushy-tailed acrobats of the backyard, can be a source of amusement and frustration in equal measure. While their antics can be entertaining, their digging habits can wreak havoc on a meticulously maintained lawn. Understanding why they dig and implementing effective deterrents are key to reclaiming your pristine grass. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the knowledge and tools to effectively stop squirrels from digging in your grass.
Understanding Squirrel Digging Behavior
Before launching a full-scale assault on your furry foes, it’s crucial to understand their motivations. Squirrels aren’t simply digging to be destructive; they have specific reasons for their digging behavior, and identifying those reasons will help you tailor your approach.
Why Squirrels Dig: Food, Storage, and Territory
The primary reason squirrels dig in grass is to search for food. They are particularly fond of nuts, seeds, bulbs, and grubs. They also dig to bury food caches for later consumption, a behavior known as scatter-hoarding. These hidden treasures are essential for surviving the lean winter months. Furthermore, squirrels might dig to establish and defend their territory, especially during mating season. They might be creating shallow scrapes or tunnels as part of their territorial marking.
Identifying Squirrel Damage: What to Look For
Squirrel damage is typically characterized by small, shallow holes scattered across your lawn. These holes are usually only a few inches deep and wide. You may also notice disturbed soil, scattered leaves, and unearthed bulbs or plants. Unlike the larger, more uniform holes left by burrowing animals like moles or voles, squirrel holes are often irregular and appear randomly distributed. Keep an eye out for these signs to confirm that squirrels are indeed the culprits.
Effective Squirrel Deterrents: A Multi-Pronged Approach
The most effective approach to deterring squirrels is a combination of strategies that address their motivations and make your lawn less appealing. A single solution rarely works, so be prepared to experiment and adapt your methods.
Repellents: Scent and Taste Aversions
Squirrels are sensitive to certain scents and tastes, which can be used to your advantage.
Natural Repellents: Homemade Solutions
Many readily available household items can be used to create natural squirrel repellents. Cayenne pepper, for example, is a powerful irritant that squirrels dislike. Mix cayenne pepper powder with water and spray it on your lawn and around vulnerable plants. Reapply after rain. Other options include garlic powder, vinegar, and citrus peels. These natural repellents are generally safe for plants and pets, but it’s always a good idea to test them in a small area first. Remember that the effectiveness of these natural solutions can vary depending on weather conditions and the squirrel population in your area.
Commercial Repellents: Buying Off-the-Shelf Solutions
If homemade solutions aren’t cutting it, consider using commercial squirrel repellents. These products typically contain ingredients like capsaicin (the active compound in chili peppers) or putrescent egg solids, which squirrels find offensive. Choose a repellent that is specifically labeled for squirrel deterrence and is safe for your lawn, plants, and pets. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when applying the repellent. Granular repellents can be spread across the lawn, while liquid repellents can be sprayed. Remember that repellents need to be reapplied regularly, especially after rain or watering.
Physical Barriers: Protecting Your Lawn
Physical barriers can prevent squirrels from accessing certain areas of your lawn or garden.
Netting: Protecting Vulnerable Plants
For flowerbeds or vegetable gardens, netting can be an effective barrier. Cover plants with netting, making sure to secure it to the ground to prevent squirrels from getting underneath. Choose a netting material that is strong enough to withstand squirrel gnawing.
Wire Mesh: Defending Against Digging
Burying wire mesh just below the surface of your lawn can deter squirrels from digging. Use a mesh with small openings that squirrels can’t easily penetrate. This method is particularly effective for protecting newly seeded areas or areas where squirrels frequently dig. You can also use wire mesh to protect individual plants by creating a cage around them.
Rock Mulch: Making Digging Uncomfortable
Instead of using wood mulch, which squirrels may dig through, consider using rock mulch. The larger size and weight of rocks make it difficult for squirrels to dig. Choose rocks that are attractive and complement your landscaping.
Eliminating Food Sources: Removing Temptation
Removing or limiting access to food sources is a crucial step in deterring squirrels.
Bird Feeders: A Squirrel Buffet
Bird feeders are a major attractant for squirrels. Use squirrel-proof bird feeders or place feeders in locations that are difficult for squirrels to reach. Clean up spilled birdseed regularly to prevent squirrels from scavenging. You can also choose birdseed mixes that squirrels are less likely to eat, such as those containing safflower seeds or nyjer seeds.
Nuts and Seeds: Cleaning Up Debris
Clean up fallen nuts, seeds, and fruits from trees and shrubs. This will reduce the amount of food available to squirrels and make your lawn less attractive. Regularly rake your lawn and remove any debris that could provide food or shelter for squirrels.
Grub Control: Targeting the Root of the Problem
If squirrels are digging for grubs, consider using a grub control product. Milky spore or beneficial nematodes are natural options that can help reduce grub populations. Apply the grub control product according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Remember that grub control is a preventative measure and may not immediately stop squirrels from digging.
Landscaping Strategies: Creating an Uninviting Environment
Certain landscaping choices can make your lawn less appealing to squirrels.
Planting Squirrel-Resistant Plants
Choose plants that squirrels are less likely to eat or dig around. Daffodils, alliums, and marigolds are examples of plants that squirrels tend to avoid. Consult with your local nursery for a list of squirrel-resistant plants that are suitable for your region.
Ground Cover: Filling the Gaps
Dense ground cover can make it more difficult for squirrels to dig. Consider planting ground cover such as creeping thyme or clover. These plants will also help to suppress weeds and improve soil health.
Humane Considerations: Coexisting with Squirrels
While it’s understandable to want to get rid of squirrels, it’s important to do so humanely. Avoid using traps or poisons that can harm or kill squirrels. The goal is to deter them, not eliminate them. Consider that squirrels are a part of the local ecosystem, so coexistence is ideal.
Ongoing Maintenance: Staying Vigilant
Deterring squirrels is an ongoing process. You’ll need to regularly monitor your lawn and reapply deterrents as needed.
Regular Inspections: Identifying Problem Areas
Conduct regular inspections of your lawn to identify areas where squirrels are digging. Pay close attention to areas near trees, shrubs, and bird feeders. Address any problems promptly to prevent them from escalating.
Reapplication of Deterrents: Maintaining Protection
Reapply repellents regularly, especially after rain or watering. Check physical barriers for damage and repair them as needed. Continue to clean up fallen nuts, seeds, and fruits.
Adapting Your Strategy: Finding What Works
Be prepared to adapt your strategy as needed. What works in one situation may not work in another. Experiment with different deterrents and techniques until you find a combination that is effective for your lawn. Persistence is key to successfully deterring squirrels.
By understanding squirrel behavior, implementing effective deterrents, and staying vigilant, you can reclaim your lawn and enjoy a squirrel-free landscape. Remember to be patient and persistent, and don’t be afraid to try different approaches until you find what works best for you.
Why are squirrels digging in my grass in the first place?
Squirrels primarily dig in grass for two main reasons: to bury food (especially nuts and seeds) for later retrieval, and to search for food that’s already buried or for grubs and insects living in the soil. They have a remarkable memory and can often find these buried treasures, but sometimes they forget or the scent of other tempting treats draws them in. This behavior is most prevalent in the fall as they prepare for winter, but they may also dig at other times of the year if they’re hungry or if the soil is particularly rich in insects.
The presence of grubs or other soil-dwelling insects provides another strong incentive for squirrels to dig. These insects are a valuable source of protein for the squirrels, and they will actively seek them out. A lawn with a grub infestation will essentially become a squirrel buffet, leading to extensive digging and lawn damage. Addressing the underlying insect problem is often key to stopping the squirrels from digging.
What are some humane ways to deter squirrels from digging?
One effective humane method is to use physical barriers. Covering vulnerable areas of your lawn with chicken wire or netting can prevent squirrels from accessing the soil to dig. Bury the edges of the wire or netting a few inches deep to prevent them from going underneath. You can also use plant protectors around individual plants to shield them from digging.
Another set of humane methods involve using repellents. Squirrels dislike the smell and taste of certain substances. You can sprinkle cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or coffee grounds on the lawn and around plants to deter them. Commercial squirrel repellents are also available, often containing ingredients like capsaicin (from chili peppers). Reapply repellents after rain or watering to maintain their effectiveness.
Will planting certain plants deter squirrels from digging?
Yes, certain plants are known to deter squirrels due to their strong scents or textures. Planting daffodils, marigolds, hyacinths, and alliums (like garlic and onions) around the perimeter of your lawn or garden can help repel squirrels. They generally dislike the smell of these plants and will avoid areas where they are prevalent.
In addition to the previously mentioned plants, consider incorporating peppermint, geraniums, and nasturtiums into your landscape. These plants also possess strong scents that squirrels find unpleasant. Strategic planting of these deterrent plants can create a natural barrier, making your lawn less appealing to squirrels seeking a place to dig.
How can I control grub infestations to stop squirrels from digging?
The first step in controlling grub infestations is identifying if you have them. Look for signs such as thinning patches of grass that are easily pulled up, or an increased presence of birds feeding on your lawn. You can also dig up a small section of your lawn to check for grubs directly. If you find more than five grubs per square foot, it’s time to take action.
Various methods can be employed to control grubs, including beneficial nematodes, milky spore, and insecticides. Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms that parasitize grubs, while milky spore is a bacteria that attacks grubs. Insecticides should be used as a last resort, following label instructions carefully to avoid harming beneficial insects and the environment.
Are there any homemade squirrel repellent recipes I can use?
Yes, several homemade squirrel repellent recipes can be effective. One common recipe involves mixing equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar with a few drops of dish soap. The vinegar’s strong scent repels squirrels, while the soap helps the mixture adhere to plants. Spray this mixture on the lawn and around plants, being careful not to over-saturate the soil.
Another popular recipe involves mixing cayenne pepper with water and a few drops of dish soap. Add about one tablespoon of cayenne pepper to one quart of water and mix well. The capsaicin in the pepper irritates squirrels, deterring them from digging. Be cautious when spraying this mixture, avoiding contact with your eyes and skin, and reapply after rain.
How can I protect newly planted grass seed from squirrels?
When seeding a new lawn, squirrels can be a major nuisance, digging up and eating the seeds. One of the most effective methods is to cover the seeded area with netting or burlap. This physical barrier prevents squirrels from accessing the seeds while allowing sunlight and water to reach the soil. Secure the edges of the netting or burlap with stakes or rocks to prevent squirrels from lifting it.
Another strategy is to mix the grass seed with a squirrel repellent, such as cayenne pepper or a commercially available product specifically designed for seed protection. This makes the seeds less appealing to squirrels. Keep the area moist by watering regularly, as this helps the seeds germinate quickly, reducing the time they are vulnerable to squirrel predation.
How often should I reapply squirrel repellents?
The frequency of reapplication depends on the type of repellent used and the weather conditions. Homemade repellents, such as cayenne pepper or vinegar solutions, typically need to be reapplied more frequently, often after each rain or watering, or every few days. Their effectiveness diminishes quickly as the scent or taste dissipates.
Commercial squirrel repellents generally have longer-lasting effects, but it’s still important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding reapplication. These repellents often contain ingredients that are more resistant to washing away. However, even these may need to be reapplied every few weeks, or after heavy rainfall, to maintain their effectiveness in deterring squirrels.