War on Squirrels is Declared

Yes, you are reading this correctly.  War has now been declared on the squirrels in my bed!   I actually think the squirrels are getting back at me for taking more than my fair share of their nuts.  Kind of the eye for an eye theory.  Dalita thank you so much for letting me know I had issues.  Most days when I come to the garden, I see a little digging but nothing too unreasonable.  Well let's just say, today wasn't that day. What a mess.....

Since shooting the little critters is probably out of the question (I really wouldn't do that), I thought I would search for a kinder and gentler resolution.  After all I am gardening in their environment and do realize they were here first.  Nevertheless, really squirrels, if you want a carrot that bad, I will bring you one from the fridge.  Leave these alone, they are Mokum's and White Satin's.   I did come across some information and thought it may be helpful if any others are having the same issues.

The Organic Gardener's Handbook of Natural Pest and Disease Control (speaking of which is an excellent resource for those who are environmentally conscious) suggests poultry netting, repellent sprays for deer and rabbits, blood meal barrier, and drenching the bed with a castor oil repellent, commonly used to repel moles and chipmunks.  The book suggests using the netting in combination with another tactic as the best line of defense.  In addition, an eHow website (listed below) has a variety of other means to try such as used cat litter, blood meal barrier mentioned again, and a homemade hot pepper spray.  I am surprised to see cat litter as an option as to me this is a horrible choice to add to the soil.  I would love to hear if anyone has any knowledge of this tactic.

http://www.ehow.com/how_5411541_keep-squirrels-out-garden.html - link to the eHow website on How to Keep Squirrels Out of Your Garden

Normally, I use a little blood meal in the garden on a regular basis as an excellent source of nitrogen. Since I have it on hand and no additional cost would be incurred, I think it will be my first line of defense at getting the problem resolved.  I am thinking about putting a barrier around the base of the bed on the outside so I do not overdose my garden on nitrogen at this time of year.  Too much of a good thing scenario.  I figure that way it will only need replaced after a rain and will just settle into the ground naturally.  If this does not work, I would probably be inclined to try some pepper and garlic spray.  Does anyone have some thoughts on using a blood meal barrier?  Good idea, bad idea?

Consider this your notice little squirrels; you will be baffled by the mystery of the netting, repelled by the smell of blood, using a non-cow source, of course, and victory will be mine!

Called to Duty,

Denise, Beds 25 & 29