How to cover seedlings from a cat?

How to cover seedlings from a cat? - briefly

To protect your seedlings from cats, place them in covered containers or use mesh netting to create a barrier around the plants. Additionally, you can sprinkle human hair or citrus peels around the area, as cats dislike these scents.

How to cover seedlings from a cat? - in detail

To protect your precious seedlings from curious cats, consider implementing the following strategies:

1. Create a Barrier:

   • Fencing: Install chicken wire or hardware cloth fencing around the perimeter of your seedling area. Ensure the fence is at least 6 feet high, as cats are excellent jumpers. Bury the bottom 6 inches underground to prevent them from digging their way in.
   • Netting: Cover the seedlings with fine mesh netting or bird netting. Secure it firmly to the ground and any supporting structures to keep cats out.

2. Use Deterrents:

   • Citrus Peels: Cats dislike the smell of citrus. Scatter orange, lemon, or lime peels around your seedlings to deter them.
   • Coffee Grounds: Sprinkle used coffee grounds around the plants. The strong scent will repel cats.
   • Essential Oils: Mix a few drops of essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, or citronella with water in a spray bottle and apply it to the soil and plant leaves.

3. Provide Alternative Scratching Posts:

   • Cats often scratch and dig in soil as a natural behavior. Providing them with designated cat-friendly areas can help redirect their attention away from your seedlings. Place sandboxes, cat grass patches, or catnip plants near your garden but away from the seedlings.

4. Motion-Activated Deterrents:

   • Install motion-activated sprinklers or ultrasonic devices that emit a high-pitched sound when triggered by movement. These devices can startle cats and encourage them to stay away from your seedling area.

5. Physical Barriers Around Individual Plants:

   • For small areas or individual plants, place cylindrical wire cages or cloches over the seedlings. Ensure they are securely fastened to prevent cats from knocking them over.

6. Visual Deterrents:

   • Place reflective objects like CDs, aluminum foil, or shiny decorations near your seedlings. Cats dislike the reflection and noise these items create.

By implementing a combination of these strategies, you can effectively protect your seedlings from cats and ensure their healthy growth.