If you’re passionate about gardening, you’ll understand that achieving a stunning outdoor space requires a lot of time and dedication. That’s why it’s so frustrating when you look outside only to discover that some uninvited guests have been digging up your carefully tended garden.
Cats, squirrels, rabbits and deer are all known for attempting to reach your underground bulbs, wreaking havoc on your garden whilst doing so. If you’re getting ready to plant your spring-blooming bulbs for the coming year, there’s one professional gardener’s advice you’ll definitely want to hear.
TikTok garden specialist Michael Griffiths says you can scatter one kitchen essential which helps to deter pests safely.
If you want to repel unwanted creatures from your garden bulbs using a natural, non-toxic method, then according to Michael, all that’s required is some chilli powder. Found in many households’ cupboards or spice racks, this essential ingredient can be scattered throughout your garden whilst planting bulbs to help prevent unwanted animals from nosing about, reports the Express.
Scattering chilli when planting bulbs will help to drive pests away -Credit:Fuzullhanum via Getty Images
In a recent TikTok clip, Michael detailed exactly what gardeners must do to implement this advice safely and successfully. He said: “If pests are always digging up your bulbs, here’s how to stop them using one simple ingredient.”
He went on: “When planting bulbs, I like to add a pinch of heat to deter any pests.”
Showing footage of himself preparing bulbs for planting in a container, Michael said that capsicum or hot chilli powder can be used to protect your garden from being disturbed. You’ll need to scatter it directly onto the bulbs, then add some more into the planting hole.
Michael said: “It won’t hurt the bulbs or mess with your spring displays. Finally, backfill the hole and add a dusting [of chilli] on top, any pest will take one whiff and decide it’s not worth the bother.”
He pointed out that this method ‘works great’ against rabbits, squirrels and deer. According to the specialists at Homes and Gardens, smaller nuisances like slugs and snails also dislike chilli.
For established plants requiring protection, you can create a spray mixture by combining one tablespoon of washing-up liquid and two tablespoons of cayenne pepper in a water-filled bottle.
The specialists explained: “Using this solution, spray the lower leaves of plants that are attractive to slugs and snails. The dish soap will help the spicy solution to stick to the foliage. Spraying only the lower leaves and stems will help to prevent slugs and snails from reaching new, young leaves as they unfurl.”
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