Instructions to Install a Garden Fence for Small Animals

Gardening enthusiasts often face the challenge of protecting their plants and vegetables from small animals such as rabbits, squirrels, and groundhogs. Installing a garden fence specifically designed to keep these critters out can be an effective and humane solution. This article provides comprehensive instructions to help you install a functional and durable garden fence tailored for small animals.

Why Install a Garden Fence for Small Animals?

Small animals can cause significant damage by nibbling on tender plants, digging up bulbs, or trampling seedlings. Unlike larger animals, small critters can squeeze through narrow gaps and burrow under fences, making it essential to use specialized fencing techniques. A well-installed garden fence helps:

• Protect young plants and vegetables
• Minimize crop loss
• Reduce the need for chemical repellents
• Create a safe environment for your garden to thrive

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:

• Fence material: Welded wire mesh or hardware cloth with 1/2-inch openings (small enough to keep out small animals)
• Fence posts: Wooden or metal stakes (4 to 6 feet tall)
• Post driver or hammer
• Wire cutters
• Staples or U-nails (for wooden posts) or zip ties (for metal posts)
• Shovel
• Measuring tape
• Gloves (to protect your hands)
• Level (optional but helpful)
• Tension wire (optional, for added rigidity)
• Gate hardware (if including a gate)

Step 1: Plan Your Fence Layout

The first step involves determining the perimeter and shape of your fenced area.

1. Measure your garden space: Use measuring tape to outline the exact area you want to protect.
2. Mark fence corners and post locations: Use stakes or spray paint to visually mark where each fence post will go.
3. Decide on fence height: Typically, fences between 3 to 4 feet tall work well for most small animals. Taller fences may be required if you’re dealing with jumping animals like rabbits.
4. Plan for a gate: Ensure there is an accessible entry point that is secure and easy to operate.

Step 2: Choose Appropriate Fence Material

Selecting the right fence material is critical. Welded wire mesh or hardware cloth with small openings is ideal because:

• Small holes prevent animals from squeezing through.
• The metal wire resists chewing.
• Hardware cloth is durable and long-lasting.

Avoid using chicken wire alone; its large holes allow smaller animals to enter and it is not as sturdy against chewing.

Step 3: Prepare the Fence Posts

Fence posts support your wire mesh and maintain fence stability.

1. Select post type: Wooden posts are easy to work with but may rot over time; metal T-posts are durable and rust-resistant.
2. Cut posts to length: Posts should be tall enough to extend above the desired fence height by at least 6 inches for securing the wire mesh.
3. Drive posts into the ground: Using a post driver or hammer, place posts along your marked layout points about 6-8 feet apart.
4. Ensure vertical alignment: Use a level if needed to make sure posts are upright.

Step 4: Install the Wire Mesh Fence

With your posts in place, you can now attach the wire mesh:

1. Unroll the wire mesh: Lay it out flat near your fence line.
2. Secure one end of the mesh: Start at a corner post by attaching the wire mesh using staples, U-nails, or zip ties depending on post type.
3. Stretch the mesh tightly: Walk along the fence line pulling the mesh taut between posts to avoid sagging.
4. Attach mesh at each post: Secure every 12 inches vertically along each post.
5. Bury the bottom edge underground: To prevent burrowing animals from digging under, dig a trench about 6 inches deep along the fence line, place the bottom edge of the mesh into it, then backfill with soil.
6. Optional – Add tension wire: Attach tension wire along the top of your fence for added strength.

Step 5: Create a Secure Gate

A gate provides access while maintaining security.

1. Build or buy a pre-made gate frame that fits your opening.
2. Attach matching wire mesh to the gate frame using staples or fasteners.
3. Install hinges on one side of the gate post and latch hardware on the opposite side.
4. Ensure gate closes tightly without gaps that small animals could slip through.

Step 6: Inspect and Maintain Your Fence

Regular inspections will help keep your garden protected over time:

• Check for any holes or damage caused by weather or animals.
• Tighten loose staples or zip ties as needed.
• Repair any gaps where animals might enter.
• Ensure buried edges remain covered with soil.

Additional Tips for Enhancing Your Garden Fence

Prevent Climbing and Jumping

Small animals like squirrels may attempt to climb fences:

• Add a smooth barrier such as plastic flashing around posts near the top.
• Extend fencing underground at least 12 inches in an L-shape outward to discourage digging.

Use Natural Deterrents Alongside Fencing

Complement fencing with natural repellants like planting strong-scented herbs (e.g., mint or garlic) around borders.

Consider Electric Fencing for Persistent Pests

If you face persistent issues, installing low-voltage electric fencing designed for small animals can be effective but requires careful handling.

Conclusion

Installing a garden fence tailored for small animals is an essential step in protecting your plants from damage caused by rabbits, squirrels, and other critters. By following careful planning, choosing appropriate materials, and correctly installing both fence and gate components, you can create an effective barrier that safeguards your garden while coexisting respectfully with wildlife.

Regular maintenance will ensure lasting performance, giving you peace of mind as you nurture healthy and beautiful plants throughout all seasons. With patience and effort, your new garden fence will become an invaluable asset in achieving gardening success!