Do You Need to Protect Your Greenhouse from Wildlife?

Identifying Wildlife Threats

Wildlife can cause significant damage to greenhouses, including chewed-through plastic sheets, broken glass, and contaminated crops. Common threats include deer, rabbits, rodents, and birds. To prevent damage, it’s essential to identify the specific wildlife threats in your area and understand their behavior patterns.

Effective Protection Methods

There are several effective methods to protect your greenhouse from wildlife, including:

• Using hardware cloth or chicken wire with openings of 1 inch or smaller to cover the entire structure, including vents and openings.
• Installing a 3-foot tall fence around the greenhouse to prevent larger animals from jumping in.
• Using physical barriers, such as plastic sheeting or row covers, to cover plants and prevent grazing.
• Planting deer-resistant plants, such as lavender or rosemary, around the perimeter of the greenhouse to deter wildlife.
• Installing motion-activated sprinklers or ultrasonic repellent devices to scare away wildlife.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Regular maintenance and upkeep are crucial to ensure the effectiveness of your wildlife protection methods. This includes:

• Inspecting the greenhouse regularly for signs of damage or wildlife activity.
• Repairing any damaged mesh or hardware cloth promptly.
• Replacing damaged or worn-out parts to prevent further damage.
• Adjusting protection methods as needed to adapt to changing wildlife behavior patterns.