Gardeners across the UK are breathing a sigh of relief after a viral gardening tip offered a simple solution to a common autumn problem: squirrels digging up and eating precious flower bulbs.
The Squirrel Problem
While the sight of wildlife in a British garden can be charming, the reality of finding freshly planted tulip bulbs excavated and destroyed is a source of immense frustration for many. The issue is compounded by legal protections; it is illegal to move or relocate grey squirrels under The Invasive Alien Species Order 2019 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, as they are classified as a non-native species.
This legal status means gardeners must find humane and clever ways to protect their plants without harming the animals.
The Viral Gardening Solution
Enter gardener Sophie, a TikTok creator with over 40,000 followers, who has shared her fail-safe method for keeping bulbs safe. Her solution is both effective and remarkably straightforward.
In a video that has garnered significant attention, Sophie demonstrates how to use a roll of chicken wire to create a protective barrier over garden beds and plant pots. She explains that after planting your bulbs, you simply unroll the wire mesh over the soil and secure it firmly in place using tent pegs.
"This is how you stop squirrels eating your bulbs," Sophie stated in her post, adding in the caption, "If squirrels steal your tulip bulbs... get yourself some chicken wire!"
Why This Method Works
The effectiveness of this technique lies in its physical barrier. Squirrels are unable to dig through the wire to reach the bulbs beneath, yet the open mesh allows plants to grow through unimpeded once they sprout.
This approach has a significant seal of approval. The RSPCA also advocates for using wire mesh to protect bulbs, enabling plants to flourish while preventing squirrels from causing damage. The charity further suggests limiting food sources available to squirrels by using squirrel-proof bird feeders instead of scattering loose food.
While some gardeners experiment with deterrents like coffee grounds or cayenne pepper, Sophie notes that some squirrels remain undeterred by these methods, making the physical barrier of chicken wire a more reliable option.
This simple, low-cost solution promises to preserve the hard work of gardeners and ensure a vibrant spring display, free from squirrel-related sabotage.
