Quick summary
Gladiolus bulb , with their vibrant blooms , are a gardener ’s delight . However , these prized bulbs confront aformidable threatfrom squirrels , who relish grok them up and feasting on theirfleshy interior . To safeguard your gladiolus bulbs and ensure a flourishing show , it ’s crucial to implement in force protective measures . Thiscomprehensive guidewill provide you with an arsenal of strategy to outsmart these wily creatures .
Physical Barriers
1 . Wire Mesh Cages : make physical barriersaround yourgladiolus bulbsby construct wire engagement coop . These cages should be at least 12inches talland entomb 6 inches deep to prevent squirrel from digging underneath.2 . Chicken Wire : Spread chicken wire over theplanting area , fix it with stake or Rock . The sharp border of the wire willdeter squirrelsfrom undertake to burrow.3 . Raised bed : Elevate yourgladiolus bulbsby planting them inraised beds . The meridian of the beds will make it more difficult for squirrels to get at the bulbs .
Chemical Deterrents
4 . Capsaicin Spray : Capsaicin , the compound that giveschili pepperstheir heat , is aneffective squirrel deterrent . Mix capsaicin spray with water and spray it around the perimeter of your planting area.5 . Predator Urine : predator such as coyote and foxes arenatural enemiesof squirrel . use vulture urine around your gladiolus lightbulb to create the illusion of danger.6 . Blood Meal : ancestry meal is anatural fertilizerthat also play as a squirrel repellent . Sprinkle blood repast around your incandescent lamp , butavoid applyingit like a shot to the bulbs as it can glow them .
Cultural Practices
7 . Interplanting : Interplant gladiolus medulla with flora thatsquirrels dislike , such as marigolds , daffodils , or alliums . Thestrong scentsof these plant life will deter squirrels.8 . Mulching : Cover the grunge around yourgladiolus bulbswith athick layerof mulch . This will make it more hard for squirrels to dig up the bulbs.9 . Late Planting : Plant yourgladiolus bulbslater in the season , when squirrels are less active . This will give thebulbs timeto give their roots before the squirrels become a threat .
Other Methods
10 . Motion - Activated Sprinklers : Install motion - actuate sprinklers around yourplanting area . The sudden fusillade of water will galvanise squirrels and dissuade them from come near the bulbs.11 . supersonic gadget : supersonic devices pass off high - pitched sounds that are unhearable to humans but can deter squirrel . aim these machine instrategic locationsaround your garden.12 . Decoy Bulbs : works decoy bulbs madeof plastic or rubber in surface area where squirrels are likely to delve . This will unhinge them from your literal gladiolus bulbs .
Key Points: Ensuring Gladiolus Success
By implement these comprehensive strategies , you’re able to efficaciously protect your gladiolus bulb from thepersistent threatof squirrel . With a combining ofphysical barrier , chemical deterrents , cultural practices , and other methods , you could outsmart thesecunning creaturesand enjoy a vibrant display of gladiolus blossom time of year after season .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : Can I use mothball to discourage squirrels?A : No , mothball are toxic to squirrels and should not be used . Q : How often should I reapply chemic deterrents?A : Reapply chemical deterrentsevery 2 - 3 hebdomad , or more oft after rain or heavy watering . Q : Willplanting gladiolus bulbsincontainers protectthem from squirrels?A : Yes , planting gladiolus bulbsin container that are elevated off the ground can deter squirrel .
