Possums can wreak havoc on veggie gardens and fruit trees by nibbling on plants. Learn temporary and permanent solutions to deter possums while complying with wildlife protection laws.
Possums Eating Plants
Why Do Possums Eat Your Plants?
- Possums are nocturnal animals that forage for food, including tender new growth, fruit, and vegetables.
- Hungry possums, particularly mothers with young, will persistently visit gardens for food, even ignoring deterrents.
Temporary Solutions to Stop Possums Eating Plants
1. Possum Deterrent Sprays
- Use sprays like D-Ter, Scat, or Possoff, available at hardware stores.
- Apply regularly, as these sprays lose effectiveness after rain.
2. Homemade Remedies
- Garlic Spray: A mix of crushed garlic and water sprayed on plants.
- Blood and Bone Fertilizer: Spread around the base of plants to deter possums.
- Quassia Chips: Soak in water and spray the solution on leaves.
3. Limitations of Temporary Solutions
- Sprays may only last a few weeks.
- Hungry possums often ignore even strong deterrents, especially when feeding their young.
Permanent Solutions: The Only Guaranteed Way to Stop Possums
1. Physical Barriers
- Metal Tree Collars: Wrap metal sheets around tree trunks to prevent possums from climbing.
- Netting for Gardens: Use rigid netting to protect small plants or vegetable patches.
- Sheet Metal Fencing: Surround gardens with sheet metal to block access.
- Floppy Fence Tops: Add unsupported, flexible tops to fences to make climbing difficult for possums.
2. Protecting Roof Spaces
- If a possum is in your roof, block access by sealing gaps and entry points after ensuring the possum is safely evicted.
Why Relocating Possums Is Not a Solution
1. Legal Protection for Possums
- Possums are a protected native species in Australia. Relocating them without a permit is illegal.
2. Risks of Relocation
- Relocated possums often die because they cannot find food or shelter in unfamiliar areas.
- Even if relocated, a new possum will quickly move in to take its place.
Adapting to Possums in Your Garden
1. Allow Nature to Recover
- Plants and shrubs often regrow stronger after being pruned or “trimmed” by possums.
- Accepting possums as part of the ecosystem may reduce frustration over their presence.
2. Possum-Friendly Plants
- Consider planting native shrubs and trees that can tolerate browsing by possums.
How Peter the Possum Man Can Help
1. Humane Possum Removal Services
- Our licensed possum catchers hold wildlife permits to safely trap and evict possums.
- Possums are removed from buildings and released nearby in compliance with the law.
2. Possum-Proofing Your Home
- We identify and block entry points to make your home possum-free.
- For gardens, we can advise on or assist with installing physical barriers and deterrents.
Tips for Protecting Your Garden from Possums
- Regularly Inspect Your Garden: Look for signs of possum activity, such as chewed leaves or droppings.
- Secure Vegetable Gardens: Use rigid netting or fencing to keep possums out.
- Install Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers: Possums dislike sudden light or water.
- Remove Food Sources: Clear fallen fruit or food scraps that attract possums.
- Seek Professional Help: For persistent problems, call licensed professionals for removal and prevention solutions.
Final Thoughts on Stopping Possums from Eating Plants
Temporary deterrents like sprays and homemade remedies may work for a short time, but physical barriers are the only guaranteed way to stop possums from eating your plants. Possums are protected native animals, so humane solutions are essential. Trust Peter the Possum Man for professional possum removal and long-term garden protection.
Keep Possums Out of Your Garden—Safely and Effectively
If possums are destroying your plants, it’s time to go beyond temporary fixes. While sprays and home remedies may offer short-term relief, only physical barriers and expert possum-proofing provide long-lasting protection. And since possums are protected native wildlife, every solution must be humane and legally compliant.
At Peter the Possum & Bird Man, we offer professional, wildlife-safe possum removal and garden protection services. Whether you need help with installing barriers, evicting possums from your roof, or simply want advice tailored to your garden—we’re here to help.
Ready to protect your plants and live peacefully with nature? Contact us today for expert guidance and long-term solutions that keep possums out of your garden—the right way.
