Despite their diminutive size, groundhogs have an insatiable appetite. An adult groundhog can consume between 1 to 2 pounds of vegetation in a single day, which means a group of groundhogs can easily destroy a garden overnight.
Rather than letting all your hard work go to waste, we have compiled some of the best tips and tricks on how to keep groundhogs out of your garden.
Yard Decorations
Groundhogs are skittish creatures, which means loud or animated yard decorations will easily scare them off.
If you are looking for a decorative, yet functional approach, items such as wind chimes, pinwheels, and whirligigs can be hung near the garden to deter groundhogs. If you are experiencing a recurring issue with groundhogs, battery operated or motion-activated decorations are also a great way to scare off these shy creatures.
Fences
The average adult groundhog can grow up to two feet long and weighs about 9 pounds. Their small statue allows them to easily tunnel underneath or jump over short fences.
To prevent groundhogs from infiltrating your yard or garden, it is important to properly construct your fence. For the best results, use chicken wire or another wire fencing. If wire fencing is not available, virtually any type of material will work.
The fence should be at least 3-4 feet tall and buried at least twelve inches underground. This will prevent groundhogs from being able to climb or jump over the fence, as well as burrow underneath it.
Offensive Smells to Ward Off Groundhogs
As with any wild animal, groundhogs tend to avoid certain offensive smells. By placing these smells around your yard and garden, you will be able to repel these destructive creatures.
The most common component used is epsom salts. If your garden has already been invaded by groundhogs, sprinkle epsom salts near the burrow entrances and exits. If you are trying to prevent an infestation, sprinkle the epsom salt around the perimeter of your garden to keep the groundhogs away.
Groundhogs also detest the smell of castor oil, cayenne pepper, garlic, and lavender. While these materials are harmless to humans, these offensive smells are enough to keep groundhogs and numerous other wild animals at bay.
Simply sprinkle these herbs and spices around the garden, but remember to replace after rain and wind.
Have A Groundhog Problem? Call the Experts at Shumaker Animal Control
If you think you have a groundhog problem on your property, call the experts at Shumaker Animal Control to deal with the problem for you. Our experienced team will take care of the problem in a timely manner, ensuring that your home and pets are not in any danger.
At Shumaker Animal Control, we are a family-owned business who cares about the safety of you and your family but also about the well-being of the animals themselves. All of our trapping and control methods are humane, as we never try to hurt the angry or scared animal.
Call us at 443-854-8072, visit our website or fill out our contact form for more information.