How to Fence against Garden Critters

Throwing up a fence in your garden can be the first line of defense against critters. For small veggie patches, a six-foot fence will do the job. Dreaming big? Aim for 7.5 to 8 feet of fence instead. Beware of deer and keep it snug to the ground. Dance-off with rodents? Two feet for dainty rabbits, three feet for jack rabbits. Wire mesh barriers? Gaps are the entrances a critter sees, keep them less than an 1-inch (2.5 cm) wide. And for digging enthusiasts, bury the fence a couple of feet underground to help from being dug up.

Birds, chipmunks or squirrels in a lively duet in your green haven? Roll out the plant-guarding netting. Not only does the netting protect against destructive animals, but it also helps protect your berries, veggies and flowers from exposure to the elements and harmful insects. Whether you go for a loose, droopy netting or opt for a raised bed cover or tent, make sure it securely envelops your green haven, ensuring a pest-free and flourishing garden.

Scented Fighters

Be the master of critter and pest deterring garden perfumes by leaning into nature. Skip the soap bars, dog hair, and dryer sheets – they're like old-school tips that critters aren't fooled by. 

There are certain scents that animals naturally find offensive. Cayenne pepper or hot sauce might spice up our lives but rabbits, chipmunks, racoons and woodchucks wrinkle their noses at the first sniff. Peppermint or lavender? Lovely for aromatherapy but squirrels and mice hate it. 

Garlic isn't just a flavourful boost for your stew; it's a critter-repelling powerhouse. Strengthen your garden's defenses by applying a garlic spray to your plants. Even better, reap the benefits firsthand by planting garlic in your garden. It serves as an exceptional companion to veggies such as tomatoes, lettuce, potatoes, and berries, while creating an aromatic shield that rodents and insects hate.

Fun fact: Alliums, with their tall and stunning purple globe-shaped flowers, belong to the onion family. When strategically planted around other edible and ornamental plants, they work like magic, naturally deterring rabbits and deer from munching on your green treasures.