Skunks in the yard are any homeowner’s worst nightmare. When confronted, skunks would not hesitate to spray N-butyl mercaptan, an intense mix of sulfur-based compounds. If you or your pet have ever been skunked, you know how difficult it is to get rid of this putrid scent. You should visit skunkpestcontrol.com to learn how to remove skunk odor.
Furthermore, skunks are notorious for damaging the landscape by digging holes and searching for grubs. In the garden, skunks will not only dig holes, thereby destroying the root system of plants, but they will also feed on plants and fruits before you get a chance to do so. They will also get into your trash cans and make a big mess in search of food. Not to mention the wide array of health risks they pose, ranging from rabies to tapeworm.
But what if I told you some plants could repel these nuisance pests. That’s right! This article explores five plants to repel skunks from your property.
Crown Imperial
If you want a bright display of flowers in your garden while simultaneously keeping skunks out, crown imperial is your best bet! The crown imperial’s vibrant yellow and red bell-like flowers give a touch of beauty to your yard, making Crown Imperial ideal for avid gardeners.
Crown Imperial deters skunks by giving off an odor that skunks hate. This perennial plant is super easy to plant and maintain. Savvy gardeners position this plant around the border of their garden for the best results.
Stinging Nettle
Scientifically known as Urtica dioica, stinging nettle is a perennial plant effective for repelling skunks. The plant has prickly hairs that irritate the fine soft furs of skunks. When skunks are in contact with the stinging nettle’s irritating leaves, the leaves also break off and produce an unpleasant liquid. This compounds the problem for skunks. Little wonder skunks wouldn’t dare pass through stinging nettles.
Stinging nettles are best planted in the spring. They also have medicinal uses. Ensure you take great care if you have stinging nettles in your yard, as they can also irritate the skin of humans and pets.
Summer Squash
Although summer squash is a delicious and healthy vegetable for humans, it is a significant deterrent for skunks. From regular yellow squash to zucchini, different summer squash varieties effectively keep skunks away – thanks to their hairy leaves that are like hooks under magnification. Moreover, squash can also help keep other wildlife like raccoons at bay.
Squash plants best thrive in neutral to slightly acidic soil. They also require adequate sunlight so put that into consideration when planting. Watering should be limited to when the plant seems dry, and drainage must be adequate. Since squash is an annual plant, you need to replant it every year.
Oregon grape
Skunks stay away from Oregon grapes to avoid the sharp thorns at the end of the leaves. Hence, strategically planting the Oregon grape around your garden or yard can help keep skunks away.
Asides from the vitamin C-rich berries you get from the Oregon grape, it is also an ornamental plant. Its shiny, holly-like leaves, yellow flowers, and blueberries are beautiful. What’s more, do you know that the Oregon grape plant leaves can change color from red to green to burgundy? Oregon grapes are simply the real deal!
Thick hedges with horns
For thousands of years, humans have used thick hedges to keep unwanted wildlife guests from personal properties. Hence, thick hedges with horns are even more effective for keeping skunks away.
Common examples include Century plant, Bougainvillea, Blackthorn Tree, Firethorn, and Honey locust. Most of these plants are slow-growing and perennial. The only major effort to keep them effective is proper watering and trimming.
Conclusion
Several other plants are effective for keeping skunks away. Examples include wild cucumber, holly plants, and daffodils, to name a few. However, note that it is crucial to eliminate other attractants like easy access to food and shelter for plant repellents to be effective. If you have a nuisance skunk that has refused to leave your property, it’s advisable to contact a wildlife removal company like Wildlife X Team Nashville to promptly resolve the issue.
