Digging up the backyard: found more than just dirt
I’m in the same boat with the chicken wire—it slowed them down for maybe a week, but those raccoons are basically furry engineers. I ended up doubling it up and even tried burying it a few inches down, but they still found a way in. Motion lights have helped a bit, but I swear, sometimes it just seems like they enjoy the spotlight.
I haven’t tried scent deterrents yet, though I keep seeing people mention peppermint oil. Part of me wonders if it just makes the garden smell like toothpaste. Citrus peels, I’ve tossed out after juicing, but didn’t notice much difference. Maybe it depends on how persistent your local critters are? I’ve heard some folks say coffee grounds can help too, but I’m not sure if that’s just an old wives’ tale.
Decorative fencing sounds tempting, especially if it adds a bit of charm to the yard. I’m curious if anyone’s had luck with those taller metal trellises or if the raccoons just climb right over. It feels like a never-ending arms race.
Has anyone tried those ultrasonic pest repellents? I keep seeing them online but can’t tell if they’re legit or just another gadget that’ll end up in the garage.
- Yeah, raccoons are relentless. I’ve seen them lift up paving stones to get at grubs—nothing really stops them for long.
- Chicken wire only works if you dig it at least a foot down and bend it outward underground, but even then, they’ll test every inch.
- Tried those ultrasonic gadgets on a couple properties. Mixed results—sometimes they seem to work for a while, but critters get used to them fast.
- Decorative fencing looks nice, but unless it’s over 4 feet and smooth, raccoons just climb right over. Trellises actually make it easier for them.
- Scent deterrents are hit or miss. Peppermint oil made my yard smell weird, didn’t see much change in raccoon activity.
- Best luck I’ve had is with heavy-duty hardware cloth and regular patrols. Not fun, but it’s the only thing that’s slowed them down.
I hear you on the hardware cloth—definitely not cheap, but it’s been the only thing that’s lasted for me too. Here’s what I did on a tight budget: bought a roll of 1/2" mesh, cut it into strips about 18" wide, and dug a trench around my veggie beds. Bent the bottom outwards like you mentioned. Took some elbow grease but way less expensive than redoing the whole fence.
Chicken wire only works if you dig it at least a foot down and bend it outward underground, but even then, they’ll test every inch.
I tried chicken wire first because it was cheaper, but those raccoons just tore right through it after a few weeks. If you’re looking to save money, maybe try reinforcing just the “hot spots” instead of everywhere? That’s helped me stretch supplies further.