Do Squirrels Like Basil Plants

Squirrels do like basil plants and will happily nibble on them, which can be a real headache for gardeners.

If you’ve been wondering do squirrels like basil plants enough to eat them, the answer is yes, they certainly do.

Garden squirrels are opportunistic foragers, and while they prefer nuts and seeds, they won’t pass up tender, aromatic herbs like basil.

In this post, we’ll explore why squirrels are drawn to basil plants, how to tell if they’ve been snacking, and the best ways to protect your precious basil.

Let’s dig into the details so you can keep your herb garden safe.
 

Why Squirrels Like Basil Plants So Much

The simple fact that squirrels like basil plants comes down to a few key traits of this popular herb.

Basil is soft, leafy, and packed with moisture, making it an easy and appealing snack for a thirsty squirrel.

Here’s a closer look at what makes your basil patch so irresistible to these bushy-tailed critters.
 

1. Basil’s Tender Leaves Are Easy to Chew

Squirrels have strong teeth that are always growing, so they need to gnaw on things regularly.

Basil’s delicate, non-woody leaves are extremely easy for a squirrel to bite through without much effort.

Unlike tougher plants or bark, basil doesn’t require any hard work to tear apart and swallow.

This ease of access means a squirrel can quickly strip a basil plant down to its stems in just a few minutes.

That’s why your basil plants can go from lush to ragged almost overnight when squirrels are around.
 

2. The Sweet Aroma Attracts Their Curiosity

You might think the strong smell of basil would deter squirrels, but it actually does the opposite.

The sweet, fragrant oils in basil leaves are highly attractive to a squirrel’s sensitive nose.

When a squirrel is foraging for food, it relies heavily on scent to locate edible plants.

The distinct aroma of basil signals to them that a tasty, green treat is nearby.

So, the very scent that makes basil delightful to us is also a dinner bell for squirrels.
 

3. Basil Plants Provide Hydration

Squirrels need water just like any other animal, and they often get it from the food they eat.

Since basil leaves are full of water, they act as a quick source of hydration for squirrels.

On hot summer days when standing water might be scarce, a patch of juicy basil becomes a valuable resource.

This is why you’ll often see more squirrel damage to basil plants during dry spells.

They aren’t just eating for hunger, they’re also eating to quench their thirst.
 

4. It’s a Safe and Easy Food Source

Basil plants usually grow low to the ground, which makes them very accessible to squirrels.

Unlike high-hanging fruit or nuts that require climbing and risk, basil is right there at ground level.

Squirrels like basil plants because they can grab a bite and quickly dart away to safety.

They don’t have to spend time digging or working to get the reward.

This combination of accessibility and speed makes basil a perfect quick meal for a nervous squirrel.
 

Signs That Squirrels Like Basil Plants In Your Garden

If you suspect squirrels are the culprits behind your damaged basil, there are clear signs to look for.

Knowing these signs can help you confirm that squirrels like basil plants and are actively feeding on yours.

Here’s how to tell if it’s squirrels and not another pest like slugs or caterpillars.
 

1. Ragged Edges and Missing Leaves

Squirrel bites are usually jagged and torn, not clean like those made by insects.

If you see basil leaves that are partially eaten with rough, shredded edges, that’s a classic squirrel sign.

They often tear the leaves right off the stem, leaving behind bare stalks.

Unlike slugs which leave slime trails, squirrels leave messes of scattered leaf fragments on the ground.
 

2. Uprooted or Broken Stems

Squirrels aren’t gentle diners, and they frequently knock over or snap basil stems.

Because they might be in a hurry, they’ll grab at the plant and break stalks in the process.

You might find entire basil branches lying on the soil, completely detached from the main plant.

If you see this kind of wreckage, you can be very certain that squirrels like basil plants enough to cause this mess.
 

3. Digging Disturbances Around the Base

Squirrels often dig around the base of basil plants while looking for insects or seeds.

They also dig to bury their own food, and your soft basil soil makes a great hiding spot.

If you notice small, shallow holes or disturbed soil near your basil, squirrels are likely visiting.

This digging behavior often happens right before or after they sample the basil leaves themselves.
 

Effective Ways To Stop Squirrels From Eating Basil

Since squirrels like basil plants so much, you’ll need a proactive defense to save your harvest.

There are many humane ways to deter squirrels without causing them any harm.

Try a combination of these methods to figure out what works best in your yard.
 

1. Use Physical Barriers Like Netting

The most straightforward way to protect basil is to physically block access to it.

Cover your basil plants with a lightweight bird netting or a floating row cover.

Secure the edges tightly with rocks or garden staples so squirrels can’t push their way in.

This barrier ensures that even though squirrels like basil plants, they simply cannot reach them.

It’s a foolproof method that doesn’t rely on scents or taste deterrents.
 

2. Try Natural Scent Deterrents

Squirrels have strong noses, so you can use that against them with intense smells.

Sprinkling cayenne pepper, garlic powder, or crushed red pepper flakes around your basil can work.

You can also mix hot sauce with water and spray it directly on the leaves.

The strong spicy scent irritates their senses without causing permanent damage.

Just remember to reapply after it rains or when you water the garden.
 

3. Plant Basil in Hanging Baskets

If you have a persistent squirrel problem, try elevating your basil plants.

Squirrels can climb, but hanging baskets on tall, slender hooks can be very difficult for them.

They prefer to stay on solid ground where they can make a fast getaway.

Placing basil in a hanging basket or a tall, smooth-sided planter on a high table helps.

This removes the basil from the squirrel’s easy reach, even if they still like the taste.
 

So, Do Squirrels Like Basil Plants?

So, do squirrels like basil plants enough to be a serious problem for your garden?

Yes, squirrels like basil plants, and they will eat them every chance they get.

They are attracted to the tender leaves, sweet scent, and high moisture content of the basil.

While they don’t rely on basil for survival, they will not hesitate to destroy it.

By identifying the damage and using barriers or deterrents, you can protect your herbs.

Now that you know the truth, you can enjoy growing basil without handing it over to the local squirrel population.