With spring garden planning in full swing, it's no surprise that pesky critters are at the top of many gardeners' minds. If you've been hunting for an effective and natural way to keep squirrels and chipmunks from ruining your perfectly designed landscape, then you may have come across advice that suggests using coffee grounds. But do coffee grounds really repel these destructive little creatures?
Discover the pros and cons of using coffee to deter these critters so you can make an informed decision about how best to protect your outdoor oasis. Read on to learn if coffee grounds are enough to ward off those uninvited garden guests!
Coffee Grounds: Will They Work?
Image credits: Jürgen via PIxabay
The answer is yes, but with some caveats. Coffee grounds are effective at repelling squirrels and chipmunks, as they don't like the smell. Try sprinkling used coffee grounds around the border of your garden to keep your crops and flowers safe! Add a few drops of water to the ground to secure the grinds in place and help heighten the smell. It's best you test a discreet spot in your garden first to make sure it won't cause damage to your plants.
Note: Coffee grounds may also help to deter other pests, such as rabbits and cats. However, use this method as a form of preventative measure only. Always check with your local laws before using pest-repellant products in or around your home or garden.
The Flip Side
Image credits: Christiane via Pixabay
It's vital to consider the fact that using coffee grounds in your garden might cause more harm than good.
Using coffee grounds to repel squirrels and chipmunks from your garden has an obvious appeal -- It's a natural, non-toxic option. The downside is that this may not be the most sustainable solution in the long run as it can alter the soil pH level.
The smell quickly disperses, meaning you'll need to apply more of the acidic substance to your soil over time. If you want to try using coffee grounds as a deterrent, monitor the effects and adjust accordingly.
Ultimately, there are other more effective, longer lasting options available that don't require constant maintenance or harm your soil pH levels.
Alternative Solutions
If you're looking for a more natural way to keep squirrels and chipmunks out of your garden, there are other options available.
Hot Peppers
Image credits: Kate Carosio via Shutterstock
One option is to create a natural deterrent with hot peppers. Take five chopped peppers and mix with equal parts hot water and vinegar for several days. Strain and add one teaspoonful of dishwasher liquid and two teaspoons of cooking oil. This makes an effective spray repellent for squirrels and chipmunks.
Chicken Wire
Image credits: PublicDomainPictures via Pixabay
Additionally, setting up a chicken wire fence around the edge of your garden helps keep these critters out. Chicken wire is a strong mesh material that, when properly installed around your garden's perimeter, helps repel these pesky critters from getting into your plants. Not only does it prevent them from eating your vegetables or flowers, but it also stops them from digging up or trampling over the soil.
Peppermint Oil
Image credits: rawf8 via Shutterstock
Another suitable solution is using peppermint essential oil. The powerful scent of peppermint acts as an irritant to these animals. This makes them avoid entering the area. Plus, this solution is non-toxic and won't harm the other animals or plants in your garden.
To use peppermint oil as a deterrent, mix a few drops with some apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle. Shake it well and then apply it around the perimeter of your garden or anywhere else you want to keep squirrels and chipmunks out of. Reapply every few days or after it rains for the best results.
Ultrasound Wave Devices
Image credits: Kristine Rad via Shutterstock
Electronic repellents are another option. These innovative devices emit high frequency sound waves that are undetectable to humans but act as a powerful deterrent to unwanted rodents.
Ultrasound wave devices use ultrasonic technology to create a sonic barrier, so squirrels and chipmunks stay away from your precious plants. The best part is that these devices are easy to install and require no maintenance once set up. With ultrasound wave devices, you can enjoy a pest-free garden without having to worry about poisons or traps in your yard.
Don't Get Squirrely, Get Coffee!
Coffee grounds may be a great deterrent in keeping squirrels and chipmunks away from your garden! They work best when they are fresh and changed frequently. You may also want to consider adding other items such as peppermint oil or hot peppers to enhance the effectiveness of the ground coffee.
While there is no guarantee that this gets rid of all the critters, it is worth a try before resorting to more drastic options. With a bit of effort, you can make sure that your garden remains free from pesky animals so you can enjoy its beauty for years to come.
Now that you know this useful trick to keep pests away from your yard, try it out and let everyone know how it worked out for you. Leave a comment below and don't forget to share with family and friends!