How do I stop a squirrel digging up my bulbs?
Andrew Tull, by email
A BOB SAYS Grey squirrels are observant and persistent. As with birds they’re initially scared by fake predators, such as cats, birds of prey and snakes. But not for long, even if these are moved thrice daily. A yappy dog may help, but as soon as it’s back indoors, the squirrels will return.
Proprietary ‘discouragements’ – sprays and dusts based on garlic, pepper, soap or chilli extracts, or old after-shave – can work temporarily, but do not last long as weather degrades them.
A movement-operated floodlight, buzzer or sprinkler, or better all three, might just work. However, the best answer is to use small-gauge galvanised chicken netting pegged over the bulbs and buried just sufficiently to be out of sight. The leaves and flowers can grow up through it, but the squirrels cannot dig up and eat your bulbs.