When you spot a squirrel eyeing your cherry tomatoes, you might wonder if they’re actually a garden pest or just passing through. The short answer is yes, do squirrels eat cherry tomatoes—and they can be quite determined about it. These agile critters are opportunistic feeders, and your ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes are a tempting snack. But don’t worry; with the right strategies, you can protect your harvest without harming the squirrels.
Do Squirrels Eat Cherry Tomatoes
Squirrels are not picky eaters. They will eat a wide range of foods, including nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. Cherry tomatoes, with their bright color and juicy texture, are especially appealing. Squirrels are attracted to the sweetness and moisture, making your garden a prime target. They often take a single bite out of many tomatoes, ruining your crop for the season.
Why Squirrels Target Cherry Tomatoes
There are several reasons why squirrels go after cherry tomatoes. First, they are easy to reach. Cherry tomato plants are often low-growing or in containers, making them accessible. Second, the tomatoes are small and soft, so squirrels can carry them away quickly. Third, squirrels are naturally curious and will investigate anything new in their territory.
- Sweet smell attracts them from a distance
- Bright red color signals ripeness
- Thin skin makes them easy to bite
- High water content quenches thirst
Signs Squirrels Are Eating Your Tomatoes
If you suspect squirrels are the culprits, look for these signs. You might find half-eaten tomatoes on the ground or bite marks on the fruit still on the vine. Squirrels often leave jagged edges on the tomato skin. You may also see small footprints or droppings near the plants. Another clue is missing tomatoes entirely—squirrels can carry them away to eat elsewhere.
How To Protect Your Cherry Tomatoes From Squirrels
Protecting your cherry tomatoes requires a multi-step approach. Squirrels are smart and persistent, so one method may not be enough. Combine several strategies for the best results. Here are practical steps you can take.
Physical Barriers
The most effective way to keep squirrels out is to block their access. Use netting or mesh to cover your plants. Make sure the netting is secured at the base so squirrels cannot squeeze under. You can also use row covers or bird netting. Another option is to build a cage around your tomato plants using chicken wire or hardware cloth.
- Choose a fine mesh netting with holes smaller than 1 inch
- Drape it over the plants and secure with stakes or rocks
- Check regularly for tears or gaps
- Remove netting when you need to harvest
Repellents And Deterrents
Repellents can discourage squirrels from approaching. There are commercial sprays available that taste bad to squirrels. You can also make your own using hot pepper or garlic. Spray the plants and the soil around them. Reapply after rain. Another deterrent is motion-activated sprinklers. The sudden burst of water startles squirrels and teaches them to stay away.
- Hot pepper spray: mix cayenne pepper with water and a drop of dish soap
- Garlic spray: blend garlic cloves with water and strain
- Commercial repellents: look for those with capsaicin
- Motion sprinklers: set them near the tomato plants
Remove Attractants
Squirrels come to your garden for food and water. Remove other food sources to make your yard less appealing. Pick up fallen nuts, seeds, and birdseed. Keep garbage cans tightly sealed. If you have a bird feeder, place it far from your tomato plants. Also, eliminate standing water sources like bird baths or puddles.
Provide Alternative Food
Sometimes the best defense is a distraction. Offer squirrels their own food source away from your tomatoes. Place a feeder with corn, sunflower seeds, or peanuts in a different part of the yard. This may keep them busy and reduce their interest in your garden. However, be aware that this can also attract more squirrels to your property.
Natural Predators And Companion Planting
Encouraging natural predators can help control squirrel populations. Owls, hawks, and snakes prey on squirrels. You can install owl boxes or perches to attract birds of prey. Also, consider companion planting. Some plants are said to repel squirrels, though results vary. Marigolds, garlic, and onions may help deter them. Plant these around your tomato beds.
Using Scents To Repel Squirrels
Squirrels rely heavily on their sense of smell. Strong scents can confuse or repel them. Sprinkle cayenne pepper, chili powder, or crushed red pepper flakes around your plants. You can also use predator urine, available at garden stores. Coffee grounds and peppermint oil are other options. Reapply these scents after rain or watering.
What To Do If Squirrels Keep Coming Back
If you have tried multiple methods and squirrels still persist, you may need to escalate. Consider trapping and relocating, but check local laws first. Some areas require permits or prohibit relocation. Live traps baited with peanut butter or sunflower seeds can catch squirrels. Release them at least 5 miles away in a suitable habitat. Another option is to hire a professional wildlife removal service.
Seasonal Considerations
Squirrel activity changes with the seasons. In spring and summer, they are busy gathering food for their young. This is when they are most likely to target your tomatoes. In fall, they focus on storing nuts for winter. You may see less damage then. In winter, squirrels are less active but may still visit gardens if food is scarce. Adjust your protection methods accordingly.
Common Myths About Squirrels And Tomatoes
There are many myths about squirrels and their eating habits. One myth is that squirrels only eat nuts. In reality, they are omnivores and eat a variety of foods. Another myth is that squirrels avoid spicy foods. While capsaicin can deter them, some squirrels may still eat spicy tomatoes. A third myth is that squirrels will not eat green tomatoes. They may eat them if hungry, but they prefer ripe ones.
Do Squirrels Eat Cherry Tomato Plants
Yes, squirrels may also eat the leaves and stems of cherry tomato plants. They sometimes chew on the plant for moisture or out of curiosity. This can damage the plant and reduce your harvest. Protect the entire plant, not just the fruit. Use netting or cages that cover the whole plant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will squirrels eat cherry tomatoes from hanging baskets
Yes, squirrels can climb and reach hanging baskets. Use netting or place baskets in hard-to-reach areas. You can also use slick poles or baffles to prevent climbing.
Do squirrels eat cherry tomatoes at night
Squirrels are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. However, they may also feed at dawn or dusk. If you see damage at night, it could be other animals like raccoons or opossums.
Can squirrels eat cherry tomato seeds
Squirrels can eat the seeds, but they often spit them out. The seeds are not toxic to squirrels. However, eating too many seeds may cause digestive issues.
Do squirrels eat cherry tomatoes in pots
Yes, potted plants are especially vulnerable because they are easy to access. Move pots to a patio or balcony if possible. Use netting or repellents to protect them.
What other animals eat cherry tomatoes
Birds, deer, raccoons, and insects like hornworms also eat cherry tomatoes. Identify the culprit by looking at the damage pattern. Squirrels leave jagged bites, while birds peck small holes.
Final Tips For A Squirrel-Proof Garden
To keep your cherry tomatoes safe, start with prevention. Plant tomatoes in raised beds or containers with smooth sides. Use physical barriers like netting or cages. Apply repellents regularly and remove attractants. Be consistent and patient. Squirrels are clever, but you can outsmart them with a combination of methods. Remember that the goal is not to harm the squirrels but to protect your garden.
If you have persistent problems, talk to neighbors or local gardeners. They may have additional tips specific to your area. Also, consider planting extra cherry tomatoes to share with the squirrels. This might reduce your frustration while still enjoying some of your harvest. With the right approach, you can have a productive garden and coexist with local wildlife.
In summary, do squirrels eat cherry tomatoes? Yes, they do. But you can take action to minimize damage. Use barriers, repellents, and deterrents. Remove attractants and provide alternatives. Monitor your garden regularly and adjust your strategy as needed. Your cherry tomatoes can thrive even with squirrels around.
One more thing—check your garden early in the morning. Squirrels are most active then. If you see them, scare them away with noise or a quick spray of water. Over time, they will learn that your garden is not a safe place to feed. Stay consistent, and you will see fewer problems.
Finally, enjoy the process of gardening. Even with challenges, growing your own food is rewarding. With a little effort, you can protect your cherry tomatoes and have a bountiful harvest. Good luck, and happy gardening—without the squirrels getting your prize tomatoes.