4 Ways to Deter Possums from Your Garden
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Possums, although admittedly adorable, can quickly become unwelcome visitors in your garden. These nocturnal creatures are notorious for rummaging through flower beds, munching on garden vegetables, and even causing damage to structures or fencing. To protect your hard work and help preserve the beauty of your garden, here are four effective ways to deter possums from setting up camp on your property.
1) Install Motion-Activated Lights
One useful method to keep possums away is by using motion-activated lights. These devices work by sensing movement and then turning on a bright light, which can startle possums and make them feel exposed. Since possums are nocturnal creatures and prefer to operate under the cover of darkness, an unexpected burst of light will usually be enough to send them scurrying back into the shadows. Install motion-activated lights in strategic areas around your garden where you’ve noticed signs of possum activity – near food sources or possible nesting spots.
2) Set up a Perimeter Fence
A physical barrier is often an effective means of keeping unwanted visitors out of your garden, including possums. Set up a wire mesh fence – about 4 feet high and installed with a slight outward tilt – around the perimeter of your garden. This will prevent possums from climbing over it easily. For added insurance, consider installing an electric fence wire near the top to provide a mild shock should they try scaling the fence. Remember, this is meant only as a deterrent and not as harm to the animals.
3) Remove Food Sources and Shelter
Eliminating readily available food sources and shelter can help deter possums from making themselves comfortable in your garden. Keep trash cans tightly sealed and pet food stored indoors or covered if it must be left outside overnight. Additionally, ensure you pick up any fallen fruit from trees promptly and don’t leave food scraps out in compost piles.
As possums love making their homes in dark, cozy places, clean up piles of branches, leaves, or other debris which may provide a suitable nest. Keep bushes and other vegetation well-trimmed to minimize hiding spots for these creatures.
4) Use Repellent Sprays
Sometimes deterrents can be as simple as the smell of something unpleasant. You can make a homemade repellent spray using ingredients that possums dislike, such as ammonia or cloves. Fill a spray bottle with water and add a small amount of the ingredient of your choice. Spray this solution at various spots around the garden where you suspect possum activity. Remember to reapply after rain or watering your plants as the scent may fade.
By taking these four measures, you’re on your way to safeguarding your garden from unwanted possums and keeping these adorable animals in environments more suitable for their survival. Remember, it’s always wise to choose humane methods when it comes to protecting your property and maintaining a safe environment for all living creatures.