Squirrels, however, usually nibble a hole in the side of the tomato, eat just a little of it and then move on to do the same to the next tomato. 2 Ways to Protect Tomatoes from Pests with Companion Plants. Some controversy exists over whether or not tomato plants should be pruned, and the reality is that if you don't, it will not cause problems. Companion planting doesn’t guarantee pest-free tomato plants, but it can help to reduce the numbers of problem insects. 2 Ways to Protect Tomatoes from Pests with Companion Plants. Their presence signals “Keep Away” to tomato pests that can inflict harm on plants. Plenty of people do not prune at all and still grow good tomatoes. Companion planting doesn’t guarantee pest-free tomato plants, but it can help to reduce the numbers of problem insects. They chew holes in wires and destroy houses. Many of the common fruits and vegetables humans eat are also safe for rabbits.Remember rabbits are primarily leaf eaters not seed eaters. Here’s a review of the parts of the tomato plant. I've got firsthand experience that this doesn't work if your pests are mice. Tomatoes are not one of those plants that require pruning or deadheading in order to thrive, but shrewd pruning can improve the quality of the fruit you harvest. Keep in mind that some plants are toxic, and some plants are a mix - for example whilst tomatos are safe to eat, the leaves of the tomato plant are poisonous. Yes, we get it, this remedy is not for everyone. Mice in the garden may be 5 ½ to 7 inches long and are a brown to gray color. Pick them Off by Hand. Their presence signals “Keep Away” to tomato pests that can inflict harm on plants. Periodically move wood piles. It works great for larger animals and birds though. When growing tomatoes, the ultimate goal is to help the plant yield as much ripe fruit as possible. Before you choose how to get rid of mice in the garden, consider the other factors affected by baits and traps. Place unset mouse traps around your tomato plants while wearing gloves and leave them alone for several days. Use effective deterrents to keep chipmunks and other pests away from your tomato plants. Mousetraps aren't the only way to keep the mice away. Real mice aren't cute, and they don't wear tiny people clothes. The trick to growing great-tasting tomatoes is to choose the best varieties, start the plants off right, and control problems before they happen. These rather big and green tomato worms can be a HUGE pest and will obliterate your delicious tomato plants in rapid fire! Mice in the garden are a nuisance and a potential health threat due to the diseases these pests carry. It’s basically like a whole new tomato plant growing out of the original plant. Here are several steps you can take to keep rodents out of the garden: Remove their shelter— Rats and mice like to make nests in brush piles, wood piles and tall grass. Mice are voracious eaters and fast diggers that damage garden areas in the outdoor landscape. Ewwww. It works two ways: Some companion plants repel harmful insects. Not to be outdone, field mice can squeeze through the smallest spaces and are also indiscriminate feeders. How to Get Rid of Mice in the Garden. Out Of Your Garden. It is usually helpful though to have a constant supply of teeth so they can chew and nibble their way through things. Traps and bait are the most common methods of garden mouse control.