Best Fencing to Keep Chipmunks Out of the Garden

I have a chipmunk problem—they eat all my tomatoes. I'm building a new fence like a cage and wonder if 1"x1" vinyl-coated wire will be sufficient. I'm hesitant to go smaller because I don't want to block too much light. Are there other solutions?

Expert Recommendations

Using 1"x1" grid fencing provides only limited control against chipmunks. Consider 1/2"x1/2" or even 1/4"x1/4" grid fencing for better exclusion. If you've already invested in 1-inch grid, you can overlay a cloth or polyethylene mesh barrier over it, as many chipmunks can squeeze through a one-inch opening.

Another supplemental deterrent is an ultrasonic device that emits high-frequency sounds undetectable to humans but annoying to animals. You can find one example at gardenpest-x.com, and searching "ultrasonic pest repellents" will yield more options.

Follow-Up: Is a 2-Foot Mesh Overlay Enough?

A 2-foot-high mesh overlay will still be vulnerable to climbing chipmunks. For severe infestations, completely enclose the top and sides of your tomato patch with the mesh, or add an ultrasonic repellent as a secondary precaution.