I'm taking a break from gardening this year because my yard has become a buffet for local wildlife. I live in a medium-sized city on a half-acre lot, and over the past four years, I've tried various gardening methods. Unfortunately, 90% of my plants have been destroyed by local animal populations which have exploded. I now have families of groundhogs, squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, and even deer in my yard. This year alone, I've lost two fully grown maple trees to the squirrels. I've attempted using sprays, building a 4-foot fence, and I have two territorial dogs that try to fend them off but to no avail. It seems these animals just keep coming back. Without any natural predators around, how long does it usually take for these populations to decrease on their own? Will I ever be able to re-establish native plants in my yard? Even if I fence off plants, they destroy the barriers I've put up. What options do I have left? By the way, I'm in zone 7a, PA.
2 Answers
I'm curious about how squirrels could take down a full-grown maple tree—I thought they only nibbled on branches? If even established trees can't survive with the wildlife you have, it might be worth considering planting things that are toxic or thorny to deter the animals, like daffodils or some hardy cacti. Caging might be your best bet if you really want to grow something edible.
It sounds like you're really stuck! I can totally relate; I've had to cage everything in my garden too because the local gophers have no predators around. As for the deer, I put up a 9-foot fence just to keep my veggies safe. I've had some success with native plants, particularly salvias, which tend to do well in my area. If you mention your state or climate zone, some folks might have specific plant suggestions.
Thanks! I'm in Pennsylvania, zone 7a, and I tried salvias last year but they ended up getting eaten. All I've managed to grow are marigolds and a bit of foxglove. I’m also trying allium but they are pricey and sparse.