Deer and squirrels are indeed known to have a taste for tomatoes. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have come across numerous instances where these animals have feasted on tomatoes in gardens. While deer are larger and can cause more damage, squirrels, with their nimble and agile nature, can be quite cunning when it comes to stealing a bite.
Deer, being herbivores, are attracted to the lush foliage and juicy fruits that gardens offer. Tomatoes, with their vibrant colors and succulent taste, are particularly appealing to them. I have often seen deer leave behind evidence of their nighttime visits, with half-eaten tomatoes scattered around the garden. They usually take larger bites, leaving behind noticeable marks on the fruits. If you notice a significant portion of your tomato crop missing or partially eaten, it is highly likely that deer are the culprits.
On the other hand, squirrels are notorious for their mischievous behavior in gardens. They have a habit of taking just one small bite from a tomato, leaving it behind with a signature “squirrel mark.” This distinctive bite pattern sets them apart from other garden pests. Occasionally, however, squirrels might be more daring and devour an entire tomato if they find it particularly enticing. I have personally witnessed squirrels perched on a fence, gleefully munching on a ripe tomato they had managed to pilfer from a garden.
It’s worth noting that while deer and squirrels are known tomato enthusiasts, they are not the only wildlife that can cause damage. Rabbits, for instance, are also known to enjoy the taste of tomatoes and may leave behind similar evidence of their feasting. Additionally, birds like crows and sparrows have been known to peck at tomatoes, especially when they are thirsty or seeking a refreshing snack.
To protect your tomato crop from these hungry visitors, there are several measures you can take. Here are some suggestions:
1. Install a physical barrier: Fencing your garden can help keep larger animals like deer out. Ensure that the fence is sturdy and tall enough to deter them from jumping over. For squirrels, you may need to opt for finer mesh or wire to prevent them from squeezing through.
2. Use deterrents: There are various repellents available in the market that can discourage animals from feasting on your tomatoes. These repellents often have strong scents or tastes that animals find unpleasant. However, it’s important to note that these methods may not always be effective, especially if the animals are particularly hungry or determined.
3. Plant deterrents: Consider planting companion plants that naturally repel animals. For instance, marigolds are known to deter deer with their strong scent, while plants like garlic and onions can discourage squirrels and rabbits.
4. Netting: To protect individual tomato plants or ripening fruits, you can use netting to create a barrier. Make sure the netting is secured tightly around the plants to prevent animals from accessing the tomatoes.
5. Scare tactics: Some gardeners have found success with scarecrows, motion-activated sprinklers, or even placing shiny objects like aluminum foil or CDs near the tomato plants. These visual and auditory deterrents can startle animals and keep them away.
Both deer and squirrels have been known to enjoy the taste of tomatoes, with deer often taking larger bites and squirrels leaving behind their distinctive “squirrel mark.” However, it’s important to remember that these animals are not the sole culprits, as rabbits and birds can also cause damage to tomato crops. Implementing protective measures such as fencing, repellents, companion planting, netting, and scare tactics can help safeguard your tomatoes and minimize wildlife intrusion.
