Happy fall! A friendly reminder that there will be garden plots available for the 2026 planting season!
September Garden Tip: Protect Your Fall Bulbs from Squirrels and Garden Critters
Fall is the perfect time to plant spring-flowering bulbs, but if you’ve ever had your hard work dug up by squirrels or other critters, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to keep your bulbs safe this season.
Start by choosing bulbs that critters tend to avoid. Daffodils, alliums, snowdrops, and fritillaria are all naturally pest-resistant and less likely to be disturbed. Tulips and crocuses, while beautiful, are more appealing to squirrels and may need extra protection.
A physical barrier is one of the most effective methods. After planting your bulbs, lay down a sheet of chicken wire or hardware cloth over the soil and secure it with landscape pins. The bulbs will grow through the holes, but animals won’t be able to dig them up. You can also plant bulbs inside wire cages made from hardware cloth to keep them safe underground.
Natural deterrents can help too. Sprinkle blood meal, crushed red pepper, or garlic powder over your bulb beds. These strong scents discourage digging and add nutrients to the soil. Just remember to reapply after rain.
Watering after planting is another helpful tip—this settles the soil and masks the scent of freshly disturbed earth, which can attract curious critters. For persistent problems, motion-activated sprinklers or fake predators like owl statues can provide an extra line of defence.
With a few of these tricks, you can enjoy a colourful and critter-free spring bloom. Happy planting!
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