Squirrels may be adorable but for gardeners they can be a menace. Despite their cuddly appearance, squirrels can wreak havoc on the garden and are notorious for digging up bulbs, eating fruits, chewing through stems and gnawing on vegetables.

However, if you want to keep these pesky rodents from tearing your garden apart, it might be easier than you think. Before you invest in expensive pest control, try a more natural solution. HouseDigest recommends planting marigolds to try and deter squirrels. Not only are marigolds beautiful with their bright gold blooms, they also have a strong scent which squirrels find repulsive.

The scent disrupts their sense of smell making it difficult for them to dig through the garden for food. 

If you want to try this natural trick to get rid of squirrels, pick a sunny spot in your garden as these flowers need at least six hours of light a day.

Plant your seeds around 6 to 12 inches apart and then once they are established, keep them watered.

They are drought tolerant but will benefit from regular watering. They also need occasional deadheading to keep them healthy. 

Marigolds are great to plant strategically. If you plant them between rows of vegetables or beside fruiting plants that squirrels target it will keep them safe.

If you don't have much space in your garden, marigolds also make great companion plants in pots next to tomatoes, peppers and herbs. 

For even more squirrel deterrent planting, try other strongly scented plants like mint or nasturtium. This layering of odours creates a stronger barrier against the squirrel's curious noses. 

As well as planting deterrents, make sure you keep your garden clean and clear of food scraps as these will encourage squirrels, rats and mice to explore your garden and eat what they fancy.