How to Keep Squirrels Away from Spring Bulbs: Tips for Cincinnati Gardeners

Cincinnati gardeners face the same challenge every fall: squirrels digging up newly planted spring bulbs. This guide will help protect your hard work and keep your spring garden safe from these pesky critters.

Why Squirrels Dig Up Spring Bulbs

Squirrels love digging up spring bulbs like tulips because they resemble the nuts they eat. Freshly planted bulbs release a scent that attracts squirrels, making your garden a prime target.

15 Tips to Keep Away from Spring Bulbs

Here are the best ways to protect your spring bulbs from squirrels:

1. Avoid Planting Tulips

   • Squirrels love tulips. Instead, choose squirrel-resistant bulbs like:
     • Daffodils
     • Alliums
     • Hyacinths
     • Snowdrops
     • Grape Hyacinths

2. Clean Up After Planting

   • Smooth out the soil and cover it with mulch or compost to mask the scent of freshly planted bulbs.

3. Plant Bulbs Deeper

   • Bury your bulbs 1-2 inches deeper than recommended. Squirrels are less likely to dig that far down.

4. Use Squirrel Repellents

   • Apply a critter repellent on the bulbs, soil, and surrounding area. Reapply after rain for ongoing protection.

5. Add a Layer of Crushed Oyster Shells

   • Sprinkle crushed oyster shells or gravel a few inches above the bulbs. The rough texture discourages digging.

6. Sprinkle Red Pepper Flakes

   • Sprinkle ground red pepper in the planting hole and over the soil surface. The strong smell deters squirrels.

7. Cover Planting Areas with Chicken Wire

   • Lay chicken wire over the area and pin it down. Bulbs can grow through the wire, and you can remove it after the ground freezes.

8. Create a Chicken Wire Bulb Basket

   • Plant bulbs inside a chicken wire basket buried in the ground. This barrier keeps squirrels from accessing the bulbs.

9. Use Mulch and Thorny Branches

   • Cover the planting area with mulch or thorny branches to disguise it and deter digging.

10. Set Up a Squirrel Feeding Station

    • Distract squirrels by setting up a feeding area away from your garden. Offer peanuts or corn to keep them occupied.

11. Choose Squirrel-Resistant Bulbs

    • Plant bulbs that squirrels tend to avoid, such as:
      • Daffodils
      • Scilla
      • Fritillaria
      • Winter Aconite
      • Star of Bethlehem

12. Plant Bulbs in Containers

    • Plant bulbs in pots to avoid squirrel problems. Store them in an unheated garage over winter, and enjoy the blooms in spring.

13. Sprinkle Dusting Sulfur

    • Dusting sulfur can help deter squirrels. Sprinkle it in the planting hole and on the soil surface.

14. Water Well and Mulch

    • Water the area well and add a layer of mulch to cover the scent and disguise the freshly planted bulbs.

15. Consult Our Cincinnati Gardening Experts

    • Have questions about spring bulbs? Contact our gardening experts for personalized advice tailored to Cincinnati conditions.

Conclusion: Enjoy a Squirrel-Free Spring Garden

With these simple tips, you can squirrel-proof your spring bulbs and enjoy a vibrant garden next season. Whether you plant squirrel-resistant bulbs or use protective measures, you can keep your Cincinnati garden safe from hungry critters.

Ready to start planting? Visit our Natorp’s Nursery Outlet for all your bulb needs and expert gardening advice!