Keeping Squirrels and Other Pests at Bay: Tips for Protecting Your Vegetable Garden

The allure of a flourishing vegetable garden can often be too tempting for local wildlife, particularly squirrels and other pests. These furry critters seem to have an insatiable appetite for freshly grown produce, leaving gardeners frustrated and their crops decimated. 

However, fear not, as there are several strategies you can employ to keep these pests out of your vegetable patch and preserve your hard-earned harvest.

Build a Fence:

One of the most effective ways to deter squirrels and other garden invaders is by erecting a sturdy fence around your garden perimeter. Opt for a barrier made from chicken wire or hardware cloth, burying it at least six inches below ground to prevent burrowing. Ensure the fence is tall enough to deter squirrels from leaping over, typically around six to eight feet high.

Implement Natural Repellents:

Harness the power of nature to ward off unwanted pests by using natural repellents. Sprinkling cayenne pepper or garlic powder around the perimeter of your garden can deter squirrels with their strong scent. Alternatively, consider planting herbs like mint or lavender, which emit fragrances that pests find unpleasant.

Install Motion-Activated Devices:

Invest in motion-activated sprinklers or ultrasonic devices to startle and deter squirrels and other pests when they venture into your garden. These devices detect movement and emit a burst of water or high-frequency sound, effectively discouraging unwanted visitors without harming them.

Cover Your Crops:

Protect your vegetables from prying paws by covering them with netting or row covers. These barriers prevent squirrels and birds from accessing your crops while still allowing sunlight and water to reach your plants. Ensure the covers are securely fastened to prevent any gaps that pests could exploit.

Provide Alternative Food Sources:

Sometimes, pests invade gardens in search of food because they lack alternative sources. Set up feeding stations stocked with nuts, seeds, and other squirrel-friendly snacks away from your garden to divert their attention. By offering an alternative food source, you may encourage squirrels to dine elsewhere, sparing your vegetables.

Maintain a Tidy Garden:

Keep your garden neat and tidy to reduce the likelihood of attracting pests. Clear away fallen fruits and vegetables promptly, as these can serve as a tempting feast for squirrels and other wildlife. Additionally, regularly remove weeds and debris, which can provide hiding spots for pests.

Conclusion:

While squirrels and other pests may pose a challenge to vegetable gardeners, there are plenty of strategies available to protect your precious crops. By implementing a combination of deterrents, barriers, and preventive measures, you can create a garden sanctuary free from unwanted visitors. With persistence and patience, you can enjoy the fruits of your labour without fear of furry intruders spoiling the harvest.

Asda ready to serve vegan customers with nine new products

As the BBQ season hots up, Asda has introduced nine new products across its OMV! and Plant Based by Asda vegan ranges.

Now, as Google searches for ‘vegetarian BBQ ideas’ soar by some 300%, Asda has announced the launch of nine new products across its vegan ranges, OMV! and Plant Based by Asda.

New and approved by the Good Housekeeping Institute, Asda’s OMV! No-Pork Chilli Sausages (£2.50) are blended with fiery green Jalapeños, red chillies and smoky chipotle, perfect for vegan spice lovers.

Making a deliciously flavourful alternative to meat, the new, fragrant Plant Based by Asda Bombay Inspired Meat-Free Bangers (£2.35) are blended with roasted sweet potatoes, roasted cauliflower, spinach and spices for extra flavour.

If burgers are more your thing, then you should try the Plant Based by Asda Spiced Bean Burgers (£2.35). Shoppers are already praising these succulent bean burgers with spicy chillies, with one shopper commenting they're “the best meat free burgers [they] have ever had.” 

Those wanting to indulge in traditional BBQ meatiness can opt for the OMV! No Beef Burgers (£1.85) or the Plant Based by ASDA Mushroom Sausages (£1.85). Asda’s meat-free alternatives are perfect when served with the OMV! Deliciously Vegan Burger Mayo (£1.50) or sandwiched between one of the OMV! Deliciously Vegan Brioche Burger Buns (£1.15).

To celebrate the arrival of BBQ season, Asda’s Senior Director of Food Trends and Innovation, Jonathan Moore, shares his top three tips on how to master the ultimate vegan BBQ:

“Don’t be tempted to start cooking on your BBQ until the flames have died down, you want to cook over the coals when they are grey in colour”

“Don’t cook your food straight from the fridge to the BBQ, you want your food out of the fridge for 10-15 minutes before you start cooking”

“Cook over direct and indirect heat depending on what you are cooking and how thick it is. When the coals are cooling slightly, you can drop vegetables like peppers and aubergine straight on and cook directly on them. This blisters the skin and adds another layer of flavour”

Asda’s OMV! And Plant Based by Asda ranges are available online and in-store now.