Yes, cinnamon can help keep squirrels away as it is considered an unpleasant natural ingredient that discourages them from certain areas. Its strong scent and taste are generally disliked by squirrels, making it a viable deterrent.
How Cinnamon Deters Squirrels
Squirrels rely heavily on their sense of smell to find food. Substances with strong, pungent odors, like cinnamon, can overwhelm their senses and make an area less appealing for foraging or nesting. Natural deterrents containing ingredients such as cinnamon or cloves are often used in repellent granules because they are disagreeable to squirrels and effectively discourage them from feeding in the treated areas.
Practical Ways to Use Cinnamon and Similar Repellents
Utilizing cinnamon and other natural deterrents can be a simple, non-toxic way to protect your garden, plants, or bird feeders from inquisitive squirrels.
Direct Application
- Sprinkle Powder: You can liberally sprinkle ground cinnamon directly around the base of plants, on garden beds, or near areas where squirrels are a nuisance, such as around bird feeders or flowerpots. Reapply after rain or watering.
- Homemade Spray: Create a cinnamon spray by mixing a few tablespoons of ground cinnamon with water and a small amount of dish soap (as an emulsifier). Spray this solution on leaves (test a small area first to ensure it doesn't harm the plant), branches, or surfaces squirrels frequent.
Other Effective Natural Deterrents
Beyond cinnamon, several other natural ingredients share similar repellent qualities and can be used in combination for enhanced effectiveness:
- Cayenne Pepper: Spreading cayenne pepper, ground chili peppers, or pepper flakes around blooming plants or other vulnerable areas can be very effective. The capsaicin in these peppers causes a burning sensation that squirrels find highly unpleasant.
- Cloves: Like cinnamon, cloves have a strong aroma that squirrels dislike. They can be used whole or ground in similar ways.
- Peppermint Oil: A few drops of peppermint essential oil on cotton balls placed in strategic locations can also deter squirrels due to its potent scent.
Important Considerations for Squirrel Deterrence
While natural repellents like cinnamon can be effective, consistency is key. Squirrels are persistent creatures, and you may need to reapply deterrents regularly, especially after rain or irrigation. For persistent issues, combining these methods with other strategies, such as physical barriers or exclusion techniques, often yields the best results. For more comprehensive methods to protect your garden from squirrels, exploring various strategies can be beneficial.
For additional information on keeping squirrels away from your garden, you can consult resources like Gardenia.net's guide on squirrel deterrence.
