Are poisons an effective way to protect a garden?

Poisons are not an effective way to protect a garden because they are indiscriminate; the same poison intended to eradicate a pest also harms pets and species that are beneficial to a garden. Some more effective options are fencing off a garden, spraying commercial repellent and building raised garden beds.

Fences should be at least 24 inches in height to protect the garden from animals that can jump. A top can be incorporated into the fence to keep species that fly or climb out.

Commercial repellents emit an unpleasant odor intended to ward off specific species.

Raised garden beds keep burrowing and jumping animals at bay. Gardens should be raised a minimum of 18 inches.