I'm struggling to keep a pack of neighborhood cats from using my garden as their litter box, and it's becoming really frustrating. I'm creating a memory garden for my two baby girls who sadly passed at birth, and it feels like a violation to find cat poop and vomit there! I've tried a few homemade remedies like mixing white vinegar with citrus peels, using plain vinegar, and spreading coffee grounds, but nothing seems to work. I'm also considering planting some flowers that could repel cats without harming them. Does anyone have tried-and-true deterrent methods or suggestions for beautiful cat-repelling plants? Thanks in advance!
3 Answers
If you want to keep cats out without using deterrents, think about how your garden looks. Make sure it's not just loose soil—cats love that. Consider planting thorny varieties, like roses, and even sticking forks or other utensils in the soil with the handles up. It keeps them uncomfortable and dissuades them from using your garden. Just a little creativity can make all the difference!
One thing that has worked well for me is using a motion sensor sprinkler. Once I installed the Orbid Garden Enforcer, the cat traffic dropped significantly. I set it at the main entrance to the garden, and it's been effective even with just one unit in a larger area. It costs around £100, but it was worth it to see the cats run off!
That's a great tip! I was worried about prices but sounds like it pays off.
I've had luck spreading used coffee grounds around my garden. The only downside is that you need to reapply after rain, but it's worked where other methods failed. Also, strong-smelling plants, like lavender, can deter cats really well. You might want to try those along with your roses!
Just be careful with sharp objects like forks! Might hurt someone if they fall on them.