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Plants getting Eaten #878647

Asked July 24, 2024, 7:02 PM EDT

What animal would eat my plants like this? Squirrels? Only certain plants are being eaten such as peppers, green beans, and cucumbers. I have a fence around garden for rabbits and I feel like deer would eat everything.

Dakota County Minnesota

Expert Response

Good Morning Matt, 

Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service. 

Do you have deer in your neighborhood? Is the fence tall enough that they cannot reach over the fence to munch on your garden?   From viewing your photos, I believe it is rabbits. Are you sure they are unable to access your garden? Have you buried your fencing in the ground so they cannot dig a hole through the ground? This could possibly be squirrels. 

Here is a link about keeping animals out of your garden: https://extension.umn.edu/news/keeping-animals-out-your-garden

Here is a link about pests in your garden: https://extension.umn.edu/how/preventing-pests-your-yard-and-garden#wildlife-control--3226516

I am wondering if you have chipmunks? They could probably get through your fence. But the damage from your beans it taller than a chipmunk. 

It really looks like some kind of critter damage. There are some non-toxic repellents. 

Good Luck!

Maureen Graber Replied July 25, 2024, 9:15 AM EDT

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