Keep squirrels out of gardens with cheap ‘DIY repellent’ known to ‘deter’ pests

The UK is home to two squirrel species, the red and grey squirrels, with the grey most commonly seen in gardens.

While they can seem like sweet animals, they can damage crops and invade bird feeders, hiding the feed in the garden.

Jordan Foster from Fantastic Pest Control explained: “You can keep squirrels out of gardens with humane methods, including hot peppers.

“Squirrels hate the taste and smell of peppers. Sprinkle some cayenne pepper, hot sauce or chilli powder flakes on the soil to repel squirrels.

“Alternatively, grow hot peppers – they won’t come close to them.” It may also be worth companion planting, planting a shrub or plant which squirrels detest near one they would love.

For those with small outdoor spaces, it may be worth making a “DIY repellent” using apple cider vinegar.

Jordan added: “Combine apple cider vinegar with peppermint oil or cayenne pepper. Then spray it on your plants or wherever you want squirrels to smell it.”

The strong pungent smell of both apple cider vinegar and peppermint is enough to make squirrels run in the opposite direction.

As well as spraying it on plants, it can be placed on hard surfaces such as plant pots, decking and fencing too.

Britons could also try using coffee grounds or peppermint as well as planting garlic and onions in the garden.

Squirrels are said to hate all of these scents and will not enter the garden if they are around the perimeter.

The pest expert said: “Daffodils, snowdrops, hyacinths, and marigolds are allium plants that keep squirrels away naturally. Avoid planting tulips and crocuses because they attract the animals.”

If short on space, consider planting these in containers around the edge of the garden or near where squirrels hide food.

Another animal which many may see as a pest in the garden are foxes, which can dig up flowerbeds as well as cause damage to fences.

Pros at The Expert Gate Company recommended using certain scents to deter foxes who have a superb sense of smell.

They said: “Commercial fox repellents are a simple solution, but caution should be exercised when reading the instructions, and you should try not to harm other wildlife. 

“A homemade fox repellent is to infuse boiling water with chilli peppers and garlic. Spray this mixture around your garden, and foxes will be less likely to pay you a visit.”