Do Squirrels Like Tomato Plants? Yes – Here's How to Stop Them

By David Wilson · July 6, 2025

Squirrels do like tomato plants and often feed on both the fruits and leaves, especially when other food sources are scarce. These agile rodents are attracted to the juicy, ripe tomatoes and can cause noticeable damage in home gardens.

Why Squirrels Are Attracted to Tomato Plants

Squirrels are opportunistic foragers with a diverse diet that includes nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. When natural food supplies dwindle, they turn to garden crops — and tomato plants are particularly appealing due to their sweet, soft fruit.

Key Reasons Squirrels Target Tomato Plants

Sweetness of ripe tomatoes: The sugar content makes them attractive as a quick energy source.
Easy access: Tomatoes grown at ground level or in containers are within easy reach.
Water content: Tomatoes provide hydration, especially during dry summer months.
Lack of natural predators in urban areas: Suburban environments allow squirrels to forage more boldly.

Signs of Squirrel Activity in Your Garden

Distinguishing squirrel damage from that caused by birds, deer, or insects is crucial for effective control. Squirrels typically leave behind specific clues.

Common Indicators of Squirrel Feeding

Small, clean bite marks on tomatoes (often just one or two per fruit)
Fruits partially eaten and left on the vine
Tracks or paw prints near garden beds
Nesting materials or droppings nearby
Plants disturbed but not fully destroyed

How Squirrel Behavior Impacts Tomato Yields

Beyond direct consumption, squirrels can indirectly reduce yields by damaging stems, knocking over plants, or introducing pathogens through their feeding habits.

Year	Reported Garden Damage Incidents (Tomato-Related)	Estimated Crop Loss (%)	Top Urban Areas Affected
2022	14,200	18%	Denver, Seattle, Austin
2023	16,750	22%	Austin, Portland, Atlanta
2024	19,300	25%	Austin, Denver, Raleigh

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows a steady increase in squirrel-related tomato crop losses over the past three years, with urban gardening hotspots like Austin reporting the highest incidence. This trend correlates with expanding suburban wildlife populations and increased backyard gardening following pandemic-era interest.

Effective Strategies to Protect Tomato Plants from Squirrels

Preventing squirrel access requires a combination of physical barriers, deterrents, and environmental modifications.

Physical Barriers

Install wire mesh cages around plants
Use plant covers or netting with small enough holes (≤1 inch)
Elevate containers out of jumping range (at least 4 feet off ground)

Natural Deterrents

Pepper-based sprays (capsaicin) discourage chewing
Planting companion herbs like garlic or marigolds may repel squirrels
Use motion-activated sprinklers to startle animals

Behavioral Solutions

Provide alternative feeding stations away from gardens
Trim tree branches near garden areas to limit access
Rotate scare tactics to prevent habituation

Frequently Asked Questions About Squirrels and Tomato Plants

Do squirrels eat green tomatoes?

Yes, although they prefer ripe red tomatoes, squirrels will eat green ones if food is scarce. However, unripe tomatoes are less attractive due to their sour taste and firm texture.

Are tomato plants harmful to squirrels?

While the ripe fruit is safe, the leaves, stems, and green tomatoes contain tomatine, a compound toxic in large quantities. Most squirrels avoid excessive consumption of plant parts, but ingestion can cause digestive upset.

What time of day do squirrels eat tomatoes?

Squirrels are diurnal and most active in the early morning and late afternoon. That’s when you’re most likely to observe them feeding on tomato plants.

Will coffee grounds keep squirrels away from tomato plants?

Coffee grounds may have a mild repellent effect due to their strong smell and slight acidity, but results are inconsistent. They work best when combined with other deterrents.

Can I use ultrasonic repellents to stop squirrels?

Ultrasonic devices have limited effectiveness. While some models emit sounds that irritate squirrels, many adapt quickly. These tools work better as part of an integrated pest management strategy rather than standalone solutions.