What Animals Eat Cucumbers & How To Repel Them

• Animals That Eat Cucumbers
• How to Repel These Animals

Introduction

Growing cucumbers can be a joy, but finding them half-eaten in your garden is frustrating. Many animals enjoy snacking on cucumbers. Let’s look at which critters are the culprits and how you can protect your cucumber plants.

Animals That Eat Cucumbers

Several animals are known to eat cucumbers, including:

• Deer: These buddies love tender cucumber vines and fruits. If deer are the culprits, please read our guide on keeping them out of your garden.
• Rabbits: They find cucumber leaves and fruits irresistible.
• Groundhogs: These burrowing animals are notorious for raiding gardens.
• Squirrels: They might nibble on cucumbers, especially if food is scarce.
• Raccoons: These clever critters can cause significant damage to cucumber plants.
• Slugs and Snails: Not animals in the traditional sense, but they love cucumber plants.

How to Repel These Animals

1. Fencing

Installing a fence around your garden is one of the best ways to keep out larger animals like deer and groundhogs. Make sure the fence is at least 8 feet tall to deter deer and buried a few inches underground to prevent digging animals.

2. Netting and Row Covers

Using netting or row covers can protect your cucumbers from smaller animals like rabbits and squirrels. These covers create a physical barrier that animals can't penetrate.

3. Repellents

Commercial repellents can be effective. Choose repellents designed for the specific animals you’re dealing with. Apply them regularly, especially after rain. Some homemade repellents include:

Garlic and Pepper Spray: Blend garlic and hot peppers with water, strain, and spray around your plants.

Here's a typical recipe for Garlic and Pepper Spray that you can use:

• 1 whole bulb of garlic
• 2-3 hot peppers (such as cayenne, habanero, or jalapeño)
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap ( acts as a surfactant to help the spray adhere to plants)
• 4 cups of water

4. Scare Tactics

Using motion-activated sprinklers or lights can scare away many animals. Reflective tape or wind chimes can also deter birds and small mammals.

5. Companion Planting

Planting strong-smelling herbs like mint, rosemary, or lavender around your cucumbers can help repel some animals. These herbs mask the scent of cucumbers, making them less attractive.

6. Traps

For persistent pests like groundhogs or raccoons, humane traps can be effective. Once captured, relocate the animals far from your garden.

7. Maintain Cleanliness

Keep your garden tidy. Remove fallen fruits and vegetables, as these attract pests. Secure your compost bin to keep it from becoming a food source.