How To Keep Woodchucks Out Of Garden
How To Keep Woodchucks Out Of Garden
Introduction
Damaging pests, such as woodchucks, are a nuisance for gardeners and homeowners they ruin produce and gardens by digging and eating plants. As many gardeners already know, keeping woodchucks out of the garden can be a difficult and frustrating endeavor. The good news is, there are many techniques and methods to prevent woodchucks from getting into the garden and damaging it. In this article, we'll discuss 8 of the best methods for keeping woodchucks out of the garden.
Create a large buffer zone
Creating a large buffer zone around the garden is one of the best ways to keep woodchucks away. Woodchucks aren't fans of wide open spaces where they are exposed to potential predators. To create the buffer zone, use a fence that is at least four feet tall and two feet wide. The fence should be made of metal chicken wire or heavy-gauge wire mesh and should be secured to metal posts or concrete barriers.
Install high-tech deterrents
There are several high-tech devices that can be used to deter woodchucks from entering the garden. Motion-activated lights and ultrasonic sound devices can be used to frighten away woodchucks. Additionally, the use of motion-activated water sprinklers can help to keep woodchucks away.
Eliminate woodchuck food sources
Woodchucks are particularly fond of clover, alfalfa, and other types of vegetation, so it's important to remove any potential food sources that may be attracting them to the garden. Keep backyard grass and vegetation pruned and eliminate any standing water, as this can attract woodchucks. Additionally, keep all garbage, pet food, and compost bins securely sealed and sealed to prevent woodchucks from getting into them.
Try using repellents
Repellents are another popular method for keeping woodchucks out of the garden. There are several commercially available repellents that can be used to keep woodchucks away from the garden. Repellents should be applied around the perimeter of the garden and replenished every few weeks.
Encourage natural predators
Woodchucks are prey to many animals, such as owls, coyotes, foxes, and hawks. Encouraging natural predators in the area can help to keep woodchucks away from the garden. Planting natural food sources and providing nesting boxes for the predators are easy ways to attract them.
Cage or fence individual plants
In some cases, it may be necessary to cage or fence individual plants. This is especially true for plants that are particularly attractive to woodchucks, such as tomatoes and corn. Cages should be made of sturdy wire and be tall enough to keep woodchucks away.
Employ trapping and extermination
In some cases, trapping and extermination may be necessary to keep woodchucks away from the garden. Trapping is often more effective than repellents or other methods. However, it should be done by a professional or certified expert, as it can be dangerous and illegal to attempt trapping and/or exterminating without the proper permits and training.
Remodel and Repair Fences
If a fence already exists around the garden, it is important to inspect it regularly to make sure there are no openings that woodchucks can use to get into the garden. Any openings should be repaired or replaced, so that woodchucks are unable to enter the garden.
Brief Recap
Keeping woodchucks out of the garden is a common problem for gardeners and homeowners, but it is possible to control them with the right methods and techniques. The best methods include creating a buffer zone, investing in high-tech deterrents, eliminating woodchuck food sources, using repellents, encouraging natural predators, caging or fencing individual plants, trapping and extermination, and remodeling and repairing fences. With these methods, gardeners can keep woodchucks away from their gardens and maintain a productive and beautiful outdoor space.
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