You are not the only animal who likes spring bulbs. A variety of Nature’s creatures do too! When thinking about pests of flower bulbs, squirrels, deer, rabbits, and moles comes immediately to mind. If you are a first-time grower, you should assume that these pests all will visit your flower gardens, even if you live in a suburban area. Chances are several flower bulb pests live in your neighborhood.
We recommend taking precautions against these pests and varmints. Pest control can be very problematic. You likely live in an area where hunting is out of the question. Or simply, you may be against harming animals. And, pest controls like fencing is out of the question, as it spoils the beautiful garden appearance that you have created.
Your pest control “arsenal” must contain tools appropriate to you and your neighborhood. Those tools may be limited to “Hav-a-hart” traps and repellents.
Listed below are some ideas that will help. Your local garden store will carry an assortment of these items.
Deer –These can often be the hardest to deter. We recommend deer repellents like Hot Pepper sprays and Fox Urine. High fences around the perimeter of your yard might be an option.
Rabbit Control – Repellent sprays help. Hav-a-hart traps are more effective. But, it is very important to check your local laws. Believe it or not, some localities allow them to be trapped, but not transported. In these cases, you need to call your local Animal Control to remove them.
Moles and Voles – A wide variety of mouse traps, poisons, and gases are available at your local stores.
Tip: If you have problems with rodents, mix partially crushed clam shells in the soil around your bulbs while planting them. Rodents do not like to dig around sharp objects.
Slugs ‘n Snails – These slimy creatures much on a variety of plants.
Squirrels – They dig up and steal many types of flower bulbs. Chipmunks, too. Find out how to control Squirrels.
Sometimes you just can’t get rid of them. So, you’ve gotta outsmart them and grow flowers the deer do not like.
See our list of Deer resistant flowers.
Depth – Do you know how deep to plant bulbs and corms? Find out.
Fertilizer – How to fertilize your bulbs and corms.
Forcing Bulbs – It’s a rewarding winter indoor gardening activity.
How to Grow – Learn or review the steps to preparing the flower bed.
Pests – There’s no shortage of pests who eat or rob your planted bulbs.
Propagation – Our flowers are so beautiful. Let’s make more!
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