As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have come across many situations where people have asked whether squirrels like lavender. Based on my personal experiences and knowledge in this field, I can confidently say that squirrels are often repelled by lavender.
Lavender, with its strong and aromatic scent, is known to deter squirrels from entering garden areas or digging up plants. The fragrance of lavender is offensive to squirrels, making it an effective natural deterrent. This is particularly true for certain varieties of lavender, such as English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) or French lavender (Lavandula dentata), which have a stronger scent.
In addition to lavender, there are other aromatic herbs that can also help repel squirrels. Plants like rosemary, mints, or even nasturtiums produce strong scents that squirrels find offensive. By incorporating these plants into your garden, you can create a natural barrier that deters squirrels from causing any damage.
Another effective way to use lavender as a squirrel deterrent is by inserting sprigs of rosemary around prized plants or in pots. Squirrels are deterred by the scent of rosemary, and when combined with lavender, it can create a powerful repellent. This method can be particularly useful if you have specific plants or areas that you want to protect from squirrel damage.
Marigolds and mustard plants are two other options that can help repel squirrels. Marigolds have a strong scent that squirrels find unpleasant, while mustard plants emit a chemical compound that squirrels dislike. By planting these flowers or herbs strategically in your garden, you can create a barrier that discourages squirrels from entering and causing any harm.
It is important to note that while lavender and other aromatic plants can act as deterrents, they may not provide a foolproof solution. Squirrels are intelligent and adaptable creatures, and they may still find ways to access your garden or cause damage. Therefore, it is best to use a combination of methods to protect your plants from squirrel activity.
Squirrels are generally repelled by lavender due to its strong and offensive scent. However, it is important to remember that no method is foolproof, and squirrels may still find ways to access your garden. By incorporating a variety of deterrents, such as lavender, rosemary, mints, marigolds, or mustard plants, you can increase your chances of keeping squirrels at bay and protecting your prized plants.
