There's just something about pumpkins that endure as classic symbols of harvest season. And whether you grow your own pumpkins in your fall garden or go to a patch to pick them instead, decorating pumpkins and then putting them on display for all to see is one of the best fall activities.
But do you know who also likes pumpkins? Squirrels. And they do more than just admire them from afar. That's because pumpkins are a fruit and are delicious to eat for all types of creatures, so they often chow down and ruin your gourds, no matter what types of pumpkins you have. And if you're wondering how to keep squirrels from eating pumpkins, you'll find some practical advice right here!
First, did you know that the guts of the pumpkin are what squirrels crave most? So if you know how to carve a pumpkin, make sure you scoop out as much of the insides as possible and your jack-o'-lantern will be less tempting for squirrels to snack on. Of course, carved pumpkins only last a few days and perhaps you want them longer or don't feel like slicing into them. Not to worry, there are plenty of other ideas.
Entice with Feeders
There are two ways you can keep squirrels and other creatures at bay: distract them or repel them. To keep squirrels otherwise occupied and away from your pumpkins, give them something else to eat. You can buy a squirrel feeder like a mini picnic bench and fill it with nuts and seeds. Some options to consider that you might have in your pantry already are sunflower seeds and walnuts.
Distract with Decoys
You can also give the critters a little scare with a decoy owl to keep them away. (Decoy hawks also work.) The most effective kinds are motion-censored decoys that continually trick them. Squirrels can be quite smart, so if the decoys don't move, they'll get used to them and won't be scared.
Speaking of motion censors, you can also invest in lights that are motion activated. This could startle the squirrels and trick them into thinking humans are around. If the squirrels are used to humans, however, you might need to combine a few options for the strategy to work.
Install Natural Repellents
If distraction isn't working, actively start to repel them. You can either buy a repellent or DIY a natural repellent. For a store bought solution, look for an animal repellent that you would use in a garden. Just be aware that it can be a little stinky like rotten eggs before it dries. Bug repellents that can keep pumpkins from rotting on the vine may also help.
Otherwise, you can make your own repellent! If you are a pet owner, since both cats and dogs are natural predators of squirrels, you can place some of their fur or something covered in their fur around the base of the pumpkin. You can also cover your gourd in a thick layer of petroleum jelly which will create a sticky surface that will deter squirrels. That will also prevent the carved edges of a jack-o'-lantern from rotting faster, FYI.
The most popular natural deterrent of squirrels is capsaicin, which is the hot component found in chili peppers. You can sprinkle red pepper flakes inside a carved pumpkin, rub bottled hot sauce on the outside, or create your own spray. Simply add some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to a spray bottle full of water, add a few drops of dish detergent to make it sticky, and spray all over the pumpkin. (Just remember that capsaicin is also an irritant to humans, so wear gloves when you handle the pumpkin and try your best to keep it away from children.)
Shop These DIY Squirrel Repellent Supplies
Vaseline Petroleum Jelly
McCormick Crushed Red Pepper
Dawn Platinum 24-Ounce Refreshing Rain Dish Soap
Bar5F Plastic Spray Bottle
AnnMarie Mattila is the Senior Editor for The Pioneer Woman, covering a wide range of topics from food and cooking to home, beauty, style, and more.
