The unusual advice could stop your outdoor space being destroyed
The strange method is believed to scare pests away(Image: Getty)
Gardeners have been told of an ingenious hack that will prevent wildlife from destroying their crops this summer. It’s widely known that animals can wreak havoc for gardeners. And green fingered householders and farmers and many have spent years trying to come up with way to stop them from spoiling their hard work.
Old fashioned scarecrows, pesticides, and fencing are also known ways that many have tried and tested over the years, however these have often proven to be a waste of time with the curious creatures still managing to do their damage despite the deterrents in place.
But Gardening experts at Farm Flavour have now suggested that a simple plastic fork could be the answer to their problems. Placing the cutlery around plants could stop animals from being able to help themselves to your plants.
They said: “Before you toss that box of unused plastic forks from last year’s holiday gathering, consider using them in your garden.
“Placing forks in the soil around your plants will discourage animals like raccoons, cats, squirrels and deer from wandering into the garden and helping themselves to your crops.”
In theory, it is believed that sharp-looking cutlery makes approaching pests think twice about getting too close, leading to them avoiding the area, reports the Express.
Placing a plastic fork could help save gardeners work(Image: (Image: Getty))
There is no evidence available as to how successful the technique is in deterring unwanted visitors but a non-invasive method with no negative impacts could mean many gardeners believe they have nothing to lose by trying.
If that method fails, the experts have plenty more novel ideas for gardening lovers to try their hand at, such as fertilising plants with coffee grounds and using cayenne pepper.
They said: “Coffee grounds are a wonderful garden fertiliser, rich in phosphorus, potassium, nitrogen and magnesium. They can also serve as pest control against slugs and snails.
Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community!
Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.
You’ll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.
All you have to do is click here if you’re on mobile, select ‘Join Community’ and you’re in!
If you’re on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click ‘Join Community’.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like.
To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose ‘exit group’.
If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
“Some even say they boast natural anti-fungal properties, which is a huge win for anyone hoping to grow healthy produce.”
On the strange use of cayenne pepper, they added: “Consider using a little cayenne pepper to keep those pesky critters away.
“Cayenne won’t harm your plants, but it will keep unwanted animals and bugs from munching on all your hard work.
“All you need to do is sprinkle a quarter cup throughout your garden every few days and you’ll begin to see healthier plants without chewed-up leaves and half-eaten fruit.”
Gardening experts recently said a natural product, that you’ll likely have at home, will also be effective at getting rid of pests from the garden.
Orange peel doesn’t just smell and taste incredible to humans, they are also packed with organic compounds which ants feed on.
By tossing orange peels around your garden or near ant trails, you’ll disrupt their food source and make your garden less attractive to them.