Possums are nocturnal animals that are known for their love of fruits and vegetables. They are commonly found in gardens and can cause a lot of damage to plants. If you are a gardener, you know how frustrating it can be to wake up in the morning and find that your hard work has been destroyed by possums overnight.
Identify the Problem
The first step to protecting your garden from possums is to identify the problem. Possums are nocturnal animals, so it can be difficult to catch them in the act. However, there are some signs that you can look for to determine if possums are the culprits behind the damage to your plants. Possums leave behind droppings that are easy to identify. They also tend to leave scratch marks on the branches of fruit trees and vegetables. If you see these signs, it is likely that possums are the source of the problem.
Use Fencing
The most effective way to protect your plants and vegetables from possums is to use fencing. You can use wire mesh or chicken wire to create a barrier around your garden. Make sure that the fence is at least 1.5 meters high, as possums are excellent climbers. You can also bury the fence 30 centimeters into the ground to prevent possums from digging underneath it.
Use Repellents
If fencing is not an option, you can use repellents to deter possums from your garden. There are many commercial repellents available on the market that are designed to keep possums away. You can also make your own repellent using natural ingredients like chili powder, garlic, and vinegar. Simply mix these ingredients with water and spray the mixture around your garden.
Plant Repellent Plants
Another way to keep possums away from your garden is to plant repellent plants. Possums are deterred by strong-smelling plants like lavender, rosemary, and eucalyptus. You can plant these herbs around the perimeter of your garden to keep possums away. You can also use plants like marigolds and daffodils, which have a strong scent that possums do not like.
Remove Attractants
Possums are attracted to gardens that have a lot of fruit and vegetables. If you want to keep possums away from your garden, you need to remove the attractants. Harvest your fruits and vegetables as soon as they are ripe and dispose of any fallen fruit or vegetables. You should also remove any pet food or birdseed from your garden, as these can also attract possums.
Use Traps
If all else fails, you can use traps to catch possums. There are many humane traps available on the market that are designed to catch possums without harming them. Once you have caught a possum, you can release it into the wild far away from your garden.
Conclusion
Possums can be a real problem for gardeners, but there are many ways to protect your plants and vegetables from these pesky animals. Whether you choose to use fencing, repellents, or traps, the key is to be proactive and take action before the damage is done. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can keep your garden safe and secure from possums and other wildlife.