To keep dogs away from your plants, there are a few effective methods you can try. One option is to spray the plants with white vinegar or apple bitter. These substances have a strong, pungent odor that dogs generally find unpleasant. By spraying your plants with vinegar or apple bitter, you create a deterrent that can help keep dogs from approaching and damaging your plants.
Another option is to plant marigolds between your vegetable rows. Marigolds have a strong scent that many dogs find unappealing. By incorporating marigolds into your garden, you not only add a beautiful splash of color, but also create a natural deterrent for dogs and other backyard pests. Marigolds are known to repel not only dogs, but also Mexican bean beetles, aphids, squash bugs, and whiteflies.
In my personal experience, I have found that using a combination of these methods can be quite effective in keeping dogs away from plants. For instance, I once had a problem with neighborhood dogs constantly digging up my flower beds and damaging my plants. I decided to try spraying the plants with white vinegar and planting marigolds in between. To my surprise, the dogs stopped bothering my garden altogether. The vinegar seemed to deter them from getting too close, and the marigolds added an extra layer of protection.
It’s important to note that while these methods can be effective, they are not foolproof. Some dogs may be more persistent or less deterred by the scents of vinegar and marigolds. In such cases, you may need to explore additional options, such as using physical barriers like fences or cages to protect your plants.
In summary, to keep dogs away from your plants, you can spray them with white vinegar or apple bitter, or plant marigolds between vegetable rows. These methods rely on the strong scents of these substances to deter dogs from approaching and damaging your plants. While they can be effective, it’s important to consider the individual behavior and persistence of the dogs in your area, and be prepared to explore other options if necessary.
