Protecting Bulbs from Squirrels: Chicken Wire and Perma-Till

Protecting Bulbs from Squirrels: Chicken Wire and Perma-Till

Squirrels dig up bulbs or displace them while burying nuts. For mass plantings, lay chicken wire over the bed after planting and cover with pine straw. For individual bulbs among perennials, add a handful of Perma-Till (expanded slate) to each planting hole—the gritty texture deters digging.

Why These Work

• Chicken wire creates a physical barrier.
• Perma-Till makes soil unpleasant for sensitive paws and teeth.

Both methods are non-toxic and effective for the critical first year when bulbs are most vulnerable.