Chipmunks can be adorable but troublesome when they invade your outdoor plant boxes, digging up seeds and damaging plants. Fortunately, you can create a humane and effective deterrent system without harming these small creatures. Here’s how:

1. Physical Barriers: Use hardware cloth or mesh to cover the soil surface of your plant boxes. Bury the edges at least 6 inches deep to prevent chipmunks from burrowing underneath.

2. Natural Repellents: Sprinkle cayenne pepper, garlic powder, or crushed mint around your plants. Chipmunks dislike these strong scents and will avoid the area.

3. Ultrasonic Devices: Install solar-powered ultrasonic repellents near your plant boxes. These emit high-frequency sounds that deter chipmunks but are harmless to pets and humans.

4. Motion-Activated Sprinklers: Set up sprinklers with motion sensors. The sudden spray of water will startle chipmunks and discourage them from returning.

5. Habitat Modification: Remove nearby hiding spots like woodpiles or dense shrubs. Keeping the area tidy reduces chipmunk activity.

By combining these methods, you can protect your outdoor plant boxes while maintaining an eco-friendly approach. Consistency is key—regularly reapply repellents and check barriers for effectiveness. Happy gardening!