Your garden is a source of pride, whether it’s a patch of tomatoes, a bed of flowers, or a backyard oasis. But in Hamilton County, local wildlife can see your garden as an open buffet. Raccoons, deer, rabbits, groundhogs, and squirrels are frequent culprits in the region, and they can undo hours of hard work overnight. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to deter these critters without harming them—or your plants.
Know Your Visitors
The first step in protecting your garden is identifying which animals are causing the damage.
Rabbits often nibble leaves and leave behind clean-cut stems.
Deer tend to trample beds and eat larger portions of plants, especially flowers and vegetables.
Raccoons and squirrels dig in mulch or soil looking for insects or buried seeds.
Groundhogs are known to devour entire sections of vegetable gardens and can burrow dangerously close to foundations.
Physical Barriers
Fencing is one of the most effective deterrents—but it needs to be done right.
Deer fencing should be at least 7–8 feet tall.
Rabbit fencing can be shorter (about 2 feet) but must be buried at least 6 inches underground.
Netting or chicken wire can protect individual plants or rows.
Raised beds also help keep smaller critters from reaching your plants.
Repellents and Deterrents
Commercial repellents use scents or tastes that animals dislike. These can be effective when reapplied regularly, especially after rain.
Natural deterrents like garlic sprays, predator urine (such as fox or coyote), or homemade mixtures with vinegar and cayenne can also be useful.
Motion-activated sprinklers or lights startle animals and can condition them to avoid your yard.
Remove Attractions
Wildlife are drawn to areas that provide easy access to food, water, and shelter. To make your garden less inviting, keep compost bins tightly secured and avoid leaving pet food outside, especially overnight. It's also important to eliminate hiding spots by clearing out brush, woodpiles, and overgrown vegetation. These areas often serve as shelter or nesting grounds for small animals like rabbits and groundhogs. Reducing these attractants can significantly lower the chances of critters settling in or returning to your yard.
Plant Smart
Some plants are naturally less appealing to wildlife. Consider incorporating species such as lavender, daffodils, marigolds, or rosemary, which can help act as a buffer zone around more vulnerable crops. Native plants are also more resilient and better adapted to local pests.
Call in the Pros
Sometimes, even with all the right precautions, wildlife becomes a persistent problem. In those cases, it’s best to call professionals. Critter Control of Hamilton County specializes in humane wildlife removal and prevention strategies. We assess your property, identify points of entry or attraction, and implement long-term solutions that protect your property.
So don't let your garden go to the critters. With the right knowledge and a little help from the pros, you can enjoy a thriving, protected outdoor space all season long. Contact us today!