What Will Attract Butterflies & Repel Squirrels?

Natural Deterrents for Squirrels

• Keeping squirrels out of the area isn't always easy, but some deterrents can be used. Contrary to some beliefs, no real plants or flowers keep squirrels away. There are, however, some natural ways to discourage them from coming around. Spray a mixture of coyote urine, cayenne pepper, blood meal and mothballs around specific areas you want to protect. Another trick is to wrap nearby tree trunks with sheet metal so they are too smooth to climb; also, trim away branches that connect with outside trees. To protect plant bulbs, soak them in Alum water before planting.

Squirrel Repellents

• "I Must Garden" sells squirrel repellent that can be sprayed directly on flowers, bushes, as well as on the twigs and leaves of young trees. The spray is also safe to spray on other areas squirrels like to frequent, such as irrigation lines and outdoor furniture. If you want to go a bit more organic, a shake-on product called Shake-Away Squirrel Repellent, put out by Critter Repellent.com, is simply sprinkled on the ground. It uses no poisons and is completely safe for your family.

Butterfly Needs

• Before planting a garden to attract butterflies, a few things should be considered. Where your garden is planted can determine a butterfly's interest. Butterflies like areas that get at least 5 to 6 hours of sunshine each day to keep them warm. They also do not like to be in areas that are windy, as it becomes a constant struggle for them. Have some sort of shelter from the wind near your garden. Along a fence, the house, or a line of shrubbery works well.

Butterfly Attracting Plants

• To plant the right flowers to attract butterflies, it helps to know which species are common to your area. Overall, the best gardens have a mix of brightly-colored nectar-rich flowers with varying plants that blossom throughout the season. If this is achieved, both adults and larvae will inhabit your garden. Include a wide variety of grasses, plants and wildflowers. Flowers that enjoy lots of sunlight are commonly best to attract butterflies, especially those with tubular flowers in close clusters.