How can I keep squirrels from digging up newly planted tulip bulbs?

Question:

How can I keep squirrels from digging up newly planted tulip bulbs?

Answer:

Several things can be done to make it difficult for squirrels to dig up tulip bulbs.

When planting tulips and other spring flowering bulbs, make sure they are planted at the proper depth.  Plant tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths 6 to 8 inches deep.  Smaller bulbs, such as crocuses and grape hyacinths, should be planted 3 to 4 inches deep.  As you place soil over the bulbs, carefully tamp down the soil with your hands.  Then water the planting area.  Planting the bulbs at the proper depth and firming the soil should make it more difficult for squirrels to dig up the bulbs.

While the aforementioned measures should help, the best way to prevent squirrels from digging up tulips and other bulbs is to cover the planting area with a piece of chicken wire or hardware cloth.  Bricks or other heavy objects can be placed on the fencing material to keep it in place.  Promptly remove the chicken wire or hardware cloth in early spring before the tulip foliage begins to emerge.  

Learn more about tulips in this article: All About Tulips

Last updated on
April 17, 2023