Squirrels, while adorable to look at, can be a real nuisance in your garden as they feast on plants and flowers. Your garden is an ideal playground for these creatures, providing them with an abundant food source.
These furry pests have a penchant for flower bulbs, buds, and even petals. Squirrels are particularly fond of tulips, crocuses, and the flower buds of camellias and magnolias, but they won’t turn their noses up at dandelions either. However, there are certain plants that squirrels detest which can also add extra colour to your garden.
Alliums
Pest Pointers notes that alliums release a potent aroma when crushed or damaged. This strong scent can be detected by squirrels from a distance and is likely to deter them from approaching.
Squirrels rely heavily on their sense of smell for locating food and evading predators. When their olfactory senses are overwhelmed, they perceive danger, keeping them away from areas where alliums are planted.
Planting alliums near your other flora can help protect your blooms from squirrel damage.
Daffodils
Not just a cheery flower, daffodils can deter squirrels. According to Gardenia.Net, daffodils contain lycorine, a substance toxic to the rodents which they instinctively recognise.
By planting daffodils in your garden or around your pool, you can effectively repel squirrels as they will deem your outdoor space hazardous.
Hyacinth
Squirrels are notorious for eating bulbs. Although hyacinth bulbs aren’t inherently toxic, they are less attractive to squirrels compared to other bulbs such as tulips. The flowers make an excellent choice for gardeners worried about bulb damage.