Cayenne pepper can indeed keep squirrels away from tomato plants! I’ve personally used it in my garden and it’s been quite effective. Squirrels have a strong sense of smell, and the strong scent of the cayenne pepper can deter them from going near your precious tomato plants.
To use cayenne pepper as a squirrel deterrent, you can simply sprinkle it around the base of your tomato plants. Make sure to apply it generously and evenly, creating a barrier that squirrels would rather avoid. You can also mix cayenne pepper with water and spray it directly onto the tomato plants themselves. This can be especially helpful if you notice squirrels nibbling on the leaves or fruits.
In addition to cayenne pepper, another option is to use Tabasco sauce. Its spicy nature can also repel squirrels effectively. You can mix a few tablespoons of Tabasco sauce with water and spray it onto your tomato plants. Just be sure to reapply after rain or heavy watering to maintain its effectiveness.
If you prefer a more natural approach, you can try using fresh or dried hot peppers. Crush them and spread them around the tomato plants or create a pepper spray by steeping them in water and spraying the mixture onto the plants. The capsaicin in hot peppers is what gives them their heat, and it can be quite off-putting for squirrels.
Another trick that can help keep squirrels away from your tomatoes is to hang a plastic owl on a plant hook near your plants. Squirrels are naturally wary of predators, and the owl’s presence can make them think twice before approaching your garden. The key is to make sure the owl moves and swings around in the breeze. This will make it more convincing to the squirrels and increase its effectiveness as a deterrent.
Using cayenne pepper, Tabasco sauce, or hot peppers can be a practical and natural way to keep squirrels away from your tomato plants. Additionally, hanging a plastic owl nearby can provide an added layer of protection. Remember to reapply the pepper or sauce after rain or heavy watering, and stay vigilant in monitoring your plants for any signs of squirrel activity. Happy gardening!