Keep Squirrels Out Of The Garden With A Fresh-Smelling Herb They Can't Stand

If you've ever found a half-eaten tomato or dug-up flower bulb and blamed the neighborhood squirrel, you're not alone. Squirrels may be cute, but in the garden, they're often destructive, stubborn, and hard to repel. Over time, gardeners have tried everything from spicy sprays to motion sensors. But one natural remedy keeps popping up, and that is mint.This fresh-smelling herb is more than a kitchen favorite. Some gardeners believe its sharp scent can overwhelm a squirrel's delicate nose and keep them out of your vegetable garden. 

The idea is that planting peppermint or, better yet, using peppermint essential oil, can create a scented barrier squirrels won't want to cross. That said, this method isn't foolproof. While some squirrels might hate the smell, others seem to ignore it, especially if they become used to the odor. Menthol, a cooling compound in peppermint, may help repel some pests, but there's no strong scientific proof it consistently works on repelling squirrels. Still, if you're looking for a natural, non-toxic option that smells great and doubles as a cooking herb, mint might be worth trying, just don't expect it to solve everything on its own.

Once you've decided to give mint a shot, the next step is figuring out how to use it in a way that actually makes a difference. Start by planting mint in your garden, and focus on the spots squirrels love to visit. That might mean placing mint near your raised garden beds, flower bulbs, or around bird feeders. Alternatively, you can also sprinkle crushed mint around the edges of your garden to create a scented border. 

Since mint spreads quickly and can take over if you're not careful, it's best to grow it in containers or confined areas. While it won't keep squirrels away entirely, it may help reduce how often they show up. For stronger results, try peppermint oil. You can make a simple spray by mixing 2 teaspoons of peppermint oil with a cup of water and 3 to 5 drops of dish soap to help it stick. Spray it around the edges of vegetable beds, along fences, or anywhere squirrels like to dig. 

Just don't spray it anywhere near your pets, as it can be toxic to them. You can also set up peppermint oil "stations" to keep squirrels from eating your flowers. Soak a few cotton balls in peppermint oil and tuck them into small jars or breathable bags. Place these around the garden near pots, tucked in corners, or hung from fences. Keep in mind that the scent of mint fades quickly outdoors, so you'll need to reapply sprays and refresh your cotton balls regularly.