Raccoons & Herb Gardens

Background

• Raccoons are nocturnal, which means they are awake at night. They are omnivorous creatures who will eat almost anything, although they are especially fond of sweet corn.

Deterrants

• Raccoons may be deterred by prickly plants, tabasco sauce, cayenne pepper, cucumbers, or epsom salt.

Traps

• Although traps may catch some raccoons, you must travel at least 25 miles to release them to prevent their return and you must get permission to release the raccoon. Moreover, it can be difficult to entice raccoons into a trap.

Electric Fences

• An electric fence is likely the most successful way to prevent raccoons from entering your garden. It should have two or three electric wires and be shaped like a large C facing outward to prevent climbing over or under the fence.

Diseases

• Raccoons may carry rabies; be careful around any animal that is acting strangely. Raccoons may also carry raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris).

Warning

• If you have raccoons in your area, avoid using pet doors. Raccoons often enter homes through pet doors.