Do Groundhogs Like Cucumbers

If you’re a gardener, you’ve probably wondered about what groundhogs eat. Do groundhogs like cucumbers? The sight of a groundhog in your yard can make you worry about your vegetable patch. These furry creatures have a big appetite, and understanding their diet is key to protecting your plants.

Let’s look at what groundhogs really eat and whether your cucumbers are on the menu. I’ll share some practical tips to keep your garden safe.

Yes, groundhogs do like cucumbers. They are not picky eaters. Cucumbers, with their high water content and tender skin, are a tempting snack for them. If a groundhog finds its way into your garden, cucumbers are likely to be eaten alongside other favorites.

Groundhogs are herbivores. Their diet changes with the seasons, but it’s always plant-based.

What Do Groundhogs Typically Eat?

A groundhog’s diet is mostly greens. They eat a wide variety of plants you might be growing.

Vegetables: Beans, peas, carrots, lettuce, and squash are all at risk. They love tender seedlings.
Fruits: They enjoy berries and have been known to nibble on fallen apples.
Ornamentals: Don’t think flowers are safe. They eat marigolds, sunflowers, and even some perennials.
Grasses and Clover: These are a staple in their diet, especially in early spring.

So, your cucumber plants are part of a larger buffet. A groundhog sees your garden as a convenient food source.

Why Cucumbers Are a Target

Cucumbers are easy for them to eat. The vines grow along the ground, putting the fruit within easy reach. The soft skin and juicy interior are appealing, especially in the summer heat. If other preferred foods are scarce, they’ll turn to cucumbers without hesitation.

Signs a Groundhog Has Been Eating Your Cucumbers

You might not see the groundhog itself. Look for these clues instead:

Large, irregular bites taken out of cucumbers and leaves.
Plants that are completely mowed down to the stem.
Shallow burrow entrances near the garden edge, often with a pile of dirt.
Droppings that look similar to a small dog’s.

How to Protect Your Cucumber Plants

Protecting your garden requires a mix of strategies. Fencing is the most reliable method.

Install a Proper Fence

A simple fence isn’t enough. Groundhogs are excellent diggers and climbers. Here’s how to build an effective one:

Use sturdy wire mesh with openings no larger than 2×4 inches.
Bury the fence at least 12 inches deep, angling the bottom outward to deter digging.
The fence should be at least 3 feet tall. Consider adding an outward-facing overhang at the top to prevent climbing.
Check regularly for gaps or signs of digging underneath.

Use Natural Deterrents

You can make your garden less inviting. These methods can help, but they often need to be reapplied.

Sprays: Homemade sprays with garlic or cayenne pepper can work. You must reapply after rain.
Predator Scents: Granules or urine from foxes or coyotes can scare them away. Their effectiveness can vary.
Plant Deterrents: Some gardeners plant strong-smelling herbs like lavender or mint around the garden’s edge. Results are mixed, but it’s worth a try.

Live Trapping and Relocation

This is a last resort and comes with important cautions.

Check your local wildlife laws. Relocating animals is illegal in many areas.
Use a sturdy, humane trap baited with fresh cantaloupe or lettuce.
Place the trap near the burrow entrance or along their travel path.
Relocate the groundhog far away (at least 5 miles) in a suitable habitat, with permission.

Remember, trapping one groundhog doesn’t mean another won’t move into the vacant territory. Prevention is better.

Creating a Less Appealing Garden

Make your yard less perfect for groundhogs. They like cover and easy access.

Keep grass trimmed and remove brush piles near the garden.
Harvest vegetables as soon as they are ripe. Don’t let overripe cucumbers sit on the vine.
Consider planting a sacrificial crop of clover or alfalfa away from your main garden to distract them. Sometimes this works well.

Understanding Groundhog Behavior

Knowing their habits helps you time your defenses. Groundhogs are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, especially in early morning and late afternoon. They hibernate, so the biggest threat to your garden is from early spring until fall. In late summer, they eat heavily to build fat reserves for winter.

This is when your cucumbers may be most at risk. They have a good memory and will return to a reliable food source repeatedly.

Common Misconceptions

Let’s clear up a few myths about groundhogs and gardens.

Myth: They only eat greens. Fact: They will gnaw on bark and even eat some insects rarely.
Myth: A scarecrow will keep them away. Fact: They quickly get used to static objects.
Myth: They are solitary and won’t do much damage. Fact: One groundhog can clear out a small garden in just a couple nights.

FAQs About Groundhogs and Gardens

What vegetables do groundhogs not eat?

They generally avoid plants with strong smells or fuzzy leaves. This can include onions, garlic, leeks, and sometimes hot peppers. However, hunger can override these preferences.

Will groundhogs eat cucumber plants?

Absolutely. They will eat both the fruit and the vines and leaves. The entire plant is vulnerable to their feeding.

What is a groundhog’s favorite food?

In the wild, they favor alfalfa, clover, and dandelions. In gardens, they seem particularly fond of young bean plants, peas, and lettuce.

Do coffee grounds repel groundhogs?

Some gardeners report success, but there is no strong scientific proof. The smell may deter them temporarily, but it’s not a guaranteed solution.

How do I keep groundhogs out of my garden naturally?

A combination of a well-built fence, keeping the area clear of hiding spots, and using occasional scent deterrents is your best natural bet. Consistency is important.

Protecting your cucumbers from groundhogs takes some effort. The most effective approach is a physical barrier like a properly installed fence. By understanding what they eat and how they behave, you can make smart choices for your garden. With these steps, you can enjoy your cucumber harvest without sharing it with your furry neighbors.