Keep Wildlife Out of Your Garden with Companion Planting

Posted on January 27, 2025 by Budgetanimal

Mid-west homeowners know the joy of tending to a lush, thriving garden—but nothing spoils your hard work faster than nuisance wildlife. From rabbits devouring your lettuce to deer turning your flower beds into a buffet, keeping your plants safe can feel like an uphill battle. While chemical repellents and barriers are common, many gardeners are turning to a more natural solution—companion planting.

By planting specific crops, flowers, or herbs together, you can deter unwanted visitors while fostering healthy plant growth. This blog will explore how you can protect your flowerbeds and gardens using companion planting with Eco-friendly, natural methods.

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What is Companion Planting?

Companion planting is the strategic pairing of plants to support mutual growth and protection. Whether it’s one plant repelling pests or another providing shade for sensitive neighbors, companion plants create a thriving symbiotic relationship. But what really makes this technique shine is its Eco-friendly approach. Companion planting reduces the need for harmful chemical pesticides and helps maintain a balanced ecosystem.

Here’s how it works when used as a wildlife control measure:

Wildlife Repellent: Some plants release natural scents or oils that deter animals. For example, marigolds are loved by gardeners because their pungent smell keeps many pests at bay.
Camouflage: Certain species can hide or protect more vulnerable plants. Tall, hardy sunflowers, for instance, can obscure leafy greens from deer.
Diversion: Instead of fighting wildlife, you can redirect them with plants they prefer—leaving your prized vegetables untouched.

Companion planting also has wider benefits, like reducing soil erosion, attracting beneficial pollinators, and improving yields—all reasons to get started.

Common Wildlife Challenges in Gardens

Before we get into what to plant, it’s essential to understand the most common troublemakers in flowerbeds and gardens. Each pest has different preferences, so targeting the right plants is key to success.

Typical Nuisance Wildlife in the Mid-West:

Deer: Known for munching on soft-leafy greens, flowers, and fruits.
Rabbits: Fond of young shoots and vegetables, especially lettuce and beans.
Raccoons: Often raid corn crops and gardens with ripe fruits like melons.
Groundhogs: Love leafy greens like cabbage and zucchini.
Squirrels: While known for digging up bulbs, they also nibble on fruits and cucumbers.
Chipmunks: Prefer seeds and small garden plants.

Understanding the wildlife in your area will help you choose the right companion plants and strategies to safeguard your garden.

Best Companion Plants for Repelling Wildlife

Not sure where to start? Here’s a guide to plants known for their pest-repelling properties that will help shield your Mid-west garden.

Marigolds

What They Repel: Rabbits, squirrels, and deer
Why They Work: Marigolds emit a strong scent that many nuisance animals find unpleasant.
Planting Tips: Thrives in full sun. Plant them around flower beds or vegetable patches to create a natural barrier.

Garlic

What It Repels: Deer, rabbits, and raccoons
Why It Works: Garlic’s pungent aroma is a natural deterrent for herbivores.
Planting Tips: Easy to grow; place between rows of vegetables for added protection.

Lavender

What It Repels: Deer and rabbits
Why It Works: The soothing smell we love is overwhelming to wildlife.
Planting Tips: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Use as decorative hedging near vulnerable crops.

Mint

What It Repels: Raccoons and rodents
Why It Works: Animals dislike mint’s sharp, fresh scent.
Planting Tips: Mint is invasive, so plant in containers near garden borders.

Sunflowers

What They Repel: Noisy wildlife deterrent due to height and concealment benefits.
Why They Work: Acts as a visual barrier to hide vulnerable garden spots from deer and rabbits.
Planting Tips: Grow in clusters for full coverage; requires good sunlight.

Nasturtiums

What They Repel: Aphids, squash bugs, and some wildlife
Why They Work: Nasturtiums are both a deterrent and attract beneficial insects to fight against larger garden pests.
Planting Tips: Perfect for hanging baskets or as ground cover around vegetable gardens.

Onions

What They Repel: Rabbits, squirrels, and chipmunks
Why They Work: The sulfur compounds in plants like onions make your garden less appetizing.
Planting Tips: Use onions to line vegetable patches or mix into other crops.

How to Plan Your Companion Planting Garden

To make the most of companion planting, you’ll need a thoughtful approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:

1. Survey Your Problem Areas

Take note of wildlife activity in your garden. Which plants or spots are most at risk? Understanding the trouble zones will help you strategize your planting layout.

2. Choose the Right Plants

Pick companion plants based on the nuisances you’re facing. If rabbits are plaguing your vegetable garden, line the area with marigolds or garlic. For squirrel-heavy spaces, a mint border works wonders.

3. Layer Your Plants

Mix tall, hardy plants like sunflowers with low-spreading options like nasturtiums to create a diverse landscape. This not only confuses wildlife but also makes your garden visually dynamic.

4. Rotate Your Crops

Keep your garden unpredictable. Some animals are smart enough to remember where they found food last season. Rotating your crops and companion plants to new areas keeps pests guessing.

5. Add Mulch and Barriers

Complement your companion plants with good mulching practices. This helps with plant health and reduces scent trails that lead wildlife to your garden.

In Summary

Companion planting is a practical, Eco-friendly solution for managing wildlife in your gardens and mulch beds while promoting a thriving ecosystem. By carefully selecting pest-repelling plants like marigolds, garlic, and mint, you can protect your crops and flowers without resorting to harmful chemicals. This approach not only deters unwanted visitors but also invites beneficial pollinators and improves the overall health and yield of your garden.

With thoughtful planning, layering, and crop rotation, you can create a harmonious space that balances nature’s challenges with its rewards. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, companion planting offers a sustainable way to cultivate a lush, wildlife-resistant garden. Start integrating these strategies today, and enjoy the benefits of a flourishing, protected outdoor sanctuary!

Are your pest problems getting out of hand? Even with the best companion planting strategies, your garden might need an extra layer of defense. Contact Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 to learn about our professional, humane wildlife control services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Together, we can keep your garden beautiful, pest-free, and inviting.

The Upside Down: Managing Bats in Your Attic

Posted on July 17, 2024 by Budgetanimal

Imagine finding out that your attic has become a sanctuary for bats. While these little creatures are essential for our ecosystem, having them in your home can pose significant challenges. Bats play a crucial role in controlling insect populations and pollinating plants. However, when they roost in residential attics, the situation can quickly turn problematic.

In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why bats may choose your attic, how to identify their presence, the risks involved, and legal considerations. We will also discuss ethical and Eco-friendly solutions for managing bats and offer tips on preventing future infestations. By the end of this article, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of how to handle bats in your attic responsibly and effectively.

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Identifying Bats in the Attic

Typical Signs of a Bat Infestation

Before you can address a bat problem, you need to know if you have one. Bats are nocturnal creatures, making it difficult to catch them in the act. However, there are several telltale signs of a bat infestation. Here are the top clues to look for in and around your house:

Guano – Bat droppings, or guano, are often the most apparent sign. Guano resembles small, dark pellets and tends to accumulate in piles. If you find these droppings in your attic or around your home, it’s a strong indicator that bats are present.
Unusual Noises – Bats are generally quiet, but you might hear rustling or fluttering sounds coming from your attic at dusk or dawn. These noises are often a giveaway that bats are nesting above.
Entry Points – Bats can enter through surprisingly small openings. Inspect your home for tiny gaps or holes, especially around roof edges, vents, chimneys, and eaves. These entry points are likely how the bats are getting in and out of your attic.

Risks and Legal Considerations

Health and Safety Risks

While bats themselves are not typically aggressive, their presence in your home can pose health risks. Bat guano can harbor dangerous fungi that cause histoplasmosis, a respiratory disease. Additionally, bats can carry rabies, which is a serious concern for homeowners.

Legal Regulations

It’s essential to be aware of the laws surrounding bat removal. In many regions, bats are protected species due to their ecological importance. Removing or harming bats without proper permits can result in hefty fines. Always check local regulations before taking any action.

Ethical Considerations

Removing bats ethically is not just about following the law; it’s about respecting wildlife. Bats play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Therefore, any removal efforts should prioritize their well-being.

Ethical and Eco-Friendly Solutions

Humane Bat Houses

One way to manage bats humanely is by providing alternative roosting sites. Installing bat houses near your property can encourage bats to relocate from your attic. These structures mimic natural roosting spots, offering bats a safe place to live without invading your home.

Professional Bat Exclusion Services

Hiring a wildlife control company specializing in bat exclusion is another ethical option. These professionals use non-lethal methods to remove bats and seal entry points to prevent re-entry. This ensures that the bats are safely relocated, and your attic is bat-free.

Eco-Friendly Approaches

Using Eco-friendly repellents and deterrents can help keep bats away without harming them. Ultrasonic devices and natural repellents like peppermint oil can be effective in discouraging bats from entering your attic.

Bat Proofing Strategies

Sealing Entry Points

The best way to prevent future bat infestations is by sealing potential entry points. Use caulk, mesh, and other materials to close gaps and holes around your home. Pay special attention to areas like vents, chimneys, and roof edges.

Installing Chimney Caps

Chimneys are common entry points for bats. Installing chimney caps can block access while still allowing your chimney to function correctly. Ensure the caps are securely fitted to prevent any gaps.

Maintaining a Well-Ventilated Attic

Bats are attracted to warm, humid environments. Keeping your attic well-ventilated can make it less appealing to bats. Regularly check for signs of moisture and ensure your attic is dry and well-ventilated.

Conclusion

Managing bats in your attic can be challenging, but it’s important to approach the situation responsibly. By identifying the signs of an infestation, understanding the risks and legal considerations, and implementing ethical and Eco-friendly solutions, you can handle the issue effectively. Preventing future infestations through proper maintenance and sealing entry points is equally crucial. If you’re struggling to manage bats in your attic, consider contacting a professional wildlife control company for expert assistance.

When nothing seems to work against bats, you need professional animal removal service. Contact Budget Animal Removal at 615-337-9165 for TWRA licensed and insured Nashville, Tennessee critter control services you can afford. We use safe and humane methods of beaver dam removal and beaver control. Plus, we serve both residential and commercial customers.

Reasons Why You Should Hire a Professional for Animal Removal Services

Posted on September 11, 2023 by Budgetanimal

Encountering an unwelcome animal in your home or on your property can be unsettling, but it’s a common occurrence that many homeowners face. While it might be tempting to tackle the issue yourself, wildlife removal isn’t as straightforward as one might think. It requires a certain level of expertise and knowledge about animal behavior, local wildlife laws, and safe removal techniques. This is where professional animal removal services come into play.

In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons why hiring a wildlife control company is not only a wise choice but often, the safest and most humane solution to your animal intrusion problem.

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Common Types of Nuisance Wildlife in the Suburbs and City

The type of animal you encounter can depend on the location, environment, and season. Common nuisance wildlife found in suburban and metro areas include squirrels, raccoons, rats/mice, bats, skunks, snakes, squirrels, chipmunks, opossums, pigeons, starlings, woodpeckers, yard moles, muskrats, and groundhogs. All of these animals can potentially carry disease, which is why it’s important to leave their removal to the professionals.

Top 3 Advantages of Professional Animal Removal Services

First and foremost, a professional animal removal service will be aware of the local wildlife laws in your area. This is crucial since it’s important to act within the legal limits when dealing with an invasive species. A reputable and experienced wildlife control company will have the right permit or license from your local governing body for safely trapping and removing animals.

Another advantage of hiring a professional for animal removal is their knowledge of the most effective and humane techniques. Professionals are experienced in handling different types of wildlife, which means they will be able to identify the type of animal you’re dealing with and provide an appropriate solution. Not only that, but professionals know how to properly trap animals without harming or stressing them out.

Finally, animal removal professionals will be able to recommend the necessary steps for preventing future intrusions and protecting your property. This could range from installing exclusion barriers around the perimeter of your home or patching up any potential entry points that animals might use to get inside. An Indianapolis wildlife control company will also be able to identify any conditions in the area that are attracting animals to your property in the first place.

The Risks Associated with DIY Animal Removal are High

Not only are there certain state and federal laws that can prevent you from legally trapping and extracting wild animals on your property, but the risk of harming yourself or the animal is very high. Never attempt to trap, touch, harm, or kill a wild animal or woodland critter unless you retain the proper permits to do so. A safer do-it-yourself approach to critter control is homemade repellent. Ingredients like menthol, capsaicin, cayenne, eucalyptus, putrescent egg, and predator urine can thwart nuisance animals from being attracted to your property.

Final Thoughts

While there are a few DIY animal removal methods available online, it’s always best to seek the help of a professional when dealing with wild animals. Professional wildlife control companies have the necessary experience, knowledge, and expertise to safely and humanely handle any animal intrusion situation. They will also be able to recommend the necessary steps for preventing future intrusions and protecting your property.

By using the right techniques and applying proper prevention methods, you can ensure that your home is safe from damage caused by nuisance wildlife. Start by contacting Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 for DNR licensed and insured animal removal and control in Indianapolis, Indiana, and surrounding counties. Request a free estimate or advice, today!

3 Animal Repellents That Will Get Rid of Bats

Posted on October 26, 2021 by Budgetanimal

The best method to avoiding a bat infestation or problem in your home is preventative maintenance. This means taking action ahead of time to keep bats away. If you live near wooded lots or forests, you could be at higher risk of a nuisance pest problem. Bats are among the most common nuisance animal in residential settings, and homeowner complaints go on and on regarding structural damages, messes, costly repairs, and more. Fortunately, there are a few effective and simple ways to repel bats and keep them away from your home and property.

Continue reading to review a few of these easy bat prevention methods, and who to call for trusted wildlife removal services in your hometown.

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Top 3 Bat Repellents to Choose From

Store-Bought Bat Repellents

There are several bat repelling products on the market today for nuisance bat control. These repellents come in a variety of styles, from sprays to caulking gels, powders, and more. They are specially formulated and designed to repel bats. Some do contain chemicals, while others are more natural-based solutions. They work by emitting tastes and sounds that bats do not like, such as eucalyptus, mint, or menthol. Although effective, bat repellent products wear off quickly, especially during rainy season, and need reapplied on a monthly basis.

Homemade Bat Repellents

For those who dislike using chemicals around their property, particularly homes with pets and children, there are Eco-friendly and homemade bat repellents that can be used to keep bats away. Certain spices and smells are off-putting to bats, which is why many store-bought products use them in their solutions. Spices like eucalyptus, cinnamon, peppermint, green tea, and menthol crystals will irritate bats’ senses, effectively keeping them off your property. Other organic items, like human hair or coyote urine will scare bats away since man and coyote are viewed as predators. For indoor use, you can mix some of these spices with water in a spray bottle.

Electronic Bat Repellents

Aside from solutions, chemicals, and natural remedies, there are more high-tech methods available on the market for bat control. Sound machines, automatic light systems, and ultrasonic sound wave machines are a few examples of electronic bat repellents. Ultrasonic sound machines create frequencies, waves, and noises that skew their communication abilities, sleep cycles, flying habits, and more; while sound machines that imitate other animals or humans can also scare bats away.

Do you have bats in the attic or disturbing your Indiana property? Contact Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 for fast and affordable animal removal and control services to get rid of bats in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. Request a free estimate or advice, today!

Common Household Ingredients That Will Repel Nuisance Wildlife

Posted on May 20, 2021 by Budgetanimal

Here in Tennessee, raccoons, skunks, squirrels, moles, opossum, rabbits, snakes, and other wild animals are known to trespass and enter residential neighborhoods and properties in search of food and shelter. Although these wild animals and others are respected and cherished, we do not want them in our yards. This is because wild animals can cause a significant amount of lawn and structural damage to homes and properties. Fortunately, there are several methods and tricks a property owner can implement in order to prevent wild animal intrusion altogether.

Continue reading to learn some homemade, do-it-yourself recipes and formulas that can thwart wild animals from entering your property and causing damage.

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Wild Animal Abatement and Proofing Basics

There are several house-based ingredients, solutions, and tools a person can use to prevent wild animals from intruding on their property and putting their homes at risk. For example, it is wise to set up mesh wire fences around gardens and other outdoor areas that might attract animals. Also, be sure to shut, lock, and cover all exterior entry ways into the home that would otherwise be overlooked, such as loose siding, air vents, garage windows, pet doors, soffits, and other similar areas. These tasks can at least prevent animals from entering your home or outdoor areas if they do get access to your yard.

The next effective do-it-yourself approach to wild animal prevention is developing a homemade solution to use around the perimeter of your front and backyard. There are so many household items and foodstuffs in a person’s home that can double as an effective animal repellent. For example, below is a list of ingredients, foods, and other items that can be used alone or in conjunction to thwart wild animals from entering your property.

Everyday Items That Will Stop Nuisance Animal Activity:

▷ Ground Pepper
▷ Red Pepper Flakes
▷ Onions
▷ Cayenne Pepper
▷ Cinnamon
▷ Eucalyptus
▷ Menthol
▷ Spearmint
▷ Ammonia
▷ Sprinklers
▷ Motion-Detecting Lights
▷ Automatic Sprinklers
▷ Sound Machines

How to Use Them for Animal Control

One approach involves using water, peppers, and onions. Simply mix the ingredients together (maybe with a little cayenne pepper as well), and transfer the liquid into a spray bottle. Spray the perimeter of your property with this solution to prevent animals from developing an interest in your yard.

Another approach involves mixing together a combination of spices, such as black pepper, hot pepper, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Next, sprinkle this mixture around your lawn to extinguish any animal curiosity. The spices and pepper spray mixture irritates wild animal’s eyes and skin, changing their minds in using your property as a home or feeding ground.

If you have a fireplace, it is suggested to place a small bowl of ammonia inside to prevent raccoons and bats from taking shelter there or using it as an entry point into your home.

If you believe you might have raccoons or other wild animals in your home, act fast and call a professional Nashville TN animal control company right away. If you live near wooded areas, you are at greater risk of wild animal problems.

When nothing seems to keep nuisance wildlife away, you need professional animal removal service. Contact Budget Animal Removal at 615-337-9165 for TWRA licensed and insured Nashville, Tennessee critter control services you can afford.

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