Bruno Pugh
Are you tired of sharing your yard with unwanted critters? From destroying flower beds to digging holes, these animals can create all kinds of chaos. Luckily, there are simple, humane strategies to keep them at bay. Check out these 15 tips to safeguard your yard from pests.
Install Fencing
Fencing is one of the most effective ways to keep critters out of your yard. A solid barrier that’s at least 3 or 4 feet tall can help deter animals like rabbits, raccoons, and even deer. To avoid digging, ensure that the fence is buried a few inches deep.
Use Motion-Activated Sprinklers
Motion-activated sprinklers provide an effective method to deter critters. When an animal enters your yard, the sprinkler activates, spraying water to startle them. This method is especially effective for larger animals like deer and raccoons.
Critter-Repelling Plants
Some plants are natural repellents for critters. Herbs like lavender, mint, and rosemary can deter animals like rabbits and squirrels. Planting these around your yard or garden can help keep unwanted guests at bay while adding beauty to your space.
Remove Food Sources
Eliminating food sources is key to preventing critters from making your yard their home. Secure trash cans with lids, remove bird feeders, and clear away fallen fruit from trees. Keeping your yard clean and food-free will make it less attractive to animals.
Use Ultrasonic Repellents
Ultrasonic repellents emit high-pitched sounds that are unpleasant for critters but inaudible to humans. These devices can help repel animals like raccoons, squirrels, and deer. Place them strategically around your yard to cover larger areas.
Apply Animal Repellent Sprays
Animal repellent sprays are a quick and easy solution. Many sprays contain natural ingredients like garlic, chili peppers, or predator urine, which create smells that animals find unpleasant. Reapply after rain to ensure continued protection.
Install Netting Over Plants
Netting protects your garden, creating a barrier between critters and plants. It is especially helpful for keeping birds, rabbits, and squirrels away from fruit trees or vegetable gardens. Make sure the netting is securely fastened.
Keep Compost Piles Enclosed
An open compost pile can attract a variety of critters, including rodents and raccoons. Use a compost bin with a tightened lid to keep them out, and avoid composting meat or dairy products, which are particularly attractive to wildlife.
Use Reflective Deterrents
Reflective objects like aluminum foil, CDs, or shiny tape can help scare off animals. These items move in the wind and reflect light, which startles critters like birds and deer. Hang them around your yard to keep animals at bay.
Build Raised Garden Beds
These not only look great, but they also make it harder for critters to reach your plants. Building beds that are at least 18 inches high can help deter small animals like rabbits while adding a modern touch to your yard.
Use Decoy Predators
Placing decoy predators like fake owls, snakes, or coyotes in your yard can help scare away smaller critters. Change the location of the decoys regularly to keep animals from getting used to them. This method works well for birds and rabbits.
Create a Physical Barrier with Rocks
Lining your garden or flower beds with rocks can create a natural barrier that critters cannot cross. This works especially well for deterring digging animals like moles and rabbits. Plus, it adds an attractive, natural element to your yard.
Install a Motion-Activated Light
Motion-activated lights startle nocturnal critters like raccoons and skunks. When the light turns on, it disrupts their activities and encourages them to leave the area. This method works best in conjunction with other deterrents.
Maintain Your Lawn Regularly
Keeping your lawn neat and trimmed can help deter critters from moving in. Tall grass and overgrown shrubs provide hiding spots for animals like mice, rabbits, and even snakes. Regular maintenance makes your yard less appealing to these pests.
Block Holes and Entry Points
Critters often find their way into your yard through gaps or holes in fences or structures. Check your yard for potential entry spots and block them with wire mesh or other materials. This will prevent animals from sneaking in unnoticed.