laying down the law with fluff and foliage
5 Easy Strategies to Prevent Your Canine Companion from Wrecking Your Flower Bed
In the pursuit of a picturesque garden, keeping your four-legged companion at bay can be a tricky endeavor. From digging up your precious sprouts to chomping on your unseasoned produce, your dog might be more of a menace than a helper. Fret not, for I've curated a list of expert tips to keep your pup from wreaking havoc in your garden.
Embrace the Fence
Fences, you say? Why, yes! They're not only a fantastic way to enclose your yard, but they also serve as a useful tool to keep your dog out of specific garden spaces. According to Kasey Bersett Eaves, proprietor of Vivant Gardening Services in Chicago, Illinois, a fence approximately 18-24 inches in height should suffice, though burly breeds or those with a penchant for jumping might need something taller. The selection of materials is entirely up to you, whether it's ornate ironwork, classic wood, or modern aluminum. With this double-duty barrier, you can deter both your dog and destructive wildlife, like deer and rabbits.
Rise Above the Fray
Elevated beds often keep pesky pooches at bay, with sides at least a foot tall deterring most determined diggers. These raised flower beds add structure to your garden and signal boundaries without looking harsh or intrusive, according to Eaves. For the more determined pups who might still peer over the side, a gentle reminder or giving the bed some plant life might help them understand that it's off-limits.
Hedge Your Bets
Beautiful hedge plants not only grace your eyes but also act as a natural barrier between your plants and your canine companion. Choose shrubs or tall grasses to create living walls where they're required to keep out doggies, as Eaves suggests. Just be cautious to pick plants that are safe for your pup, as some could prove toxic if nibbled upon.
Douse with Dashboard Deterrents
Sprinklers are your secret weapon in the quest for a pet-proof garden. By opting for motion-activated models, you can keep your beds hydrated while discouraging your dog from getting too close. Bonus points: these sprinklers can also deter deer! Keep in mind that sprinklers may not be the best fit for all pet households; some dogs may find the addition delightful, while others might find it downright terrifying.
When All Else Fails, Accept the Chaos
If your canine companion has somehow managed to evade all your attempts to keep them out, it might be time to embrace a small amount of disorder in your garden. After all, it's their lawn, too, and they probably just want to spend time with you. Embrace the philosophy that gardens are meant for all members of the planet, including pets, pollinators, and you. Set aside a space for everyone and watch the harmony unfold.
- Pets, especially dogs, can sometimes pose problems in a garden by uprooting sprouts or eating unseasoned produce, making gardening a challenge.
- To keep your dog out of specific garden spaces, consider installing a fence, which can also serve as a barrier against destructive wildlife such as deer and rabbits.
- Elevated beds, with sides at least a foot tall, can help keep out determined diggers and add structure to your garden.
- Hedge plants can be used as a natural barrier between your plants and your canine companion, creating living walls in areas where they're needed.
- Motion-activated sprinklers can help keep your beds hydrated and deter your dog and deer from getting too close, though some dogs might find them delightful or terrifying.
- If your dog has managed to access the garden despite your efforts, it might be worth accepting a small amount of disorder in your garden to allow them to spend time with you.
- The website Bhg offers expert tips and advice on fixing pest problems, pest-proofing your garden, and how to garden, with content related to home-and-garden lifestyle and gardening pets.
