oranges & berberis

[Marge]

In my garden I find a couple of local cats (snuggly though they are), do like to leave little 'presents' in my borders and newly potted Japanese maples. I wondered what to do about it and not wanting to use anything harmful to the animals (though at times I was tested!), I remembered something I heard on BBC Gardeners World ... put down orange peel.

I have indeed put down some orange peel and it has worked a treat (cats do not like the smell of oranges). The only thing is you have to keep putting down fresh orange peel every couple of weeks and it can look a bit unsightly.

Then I hit on my own idea - I carefully took cuttings from a large spiky berberis and placed the bits in and around the plants. Cats aren't stupid and naturally stay clear of the prickles.

[The Helpful Gardener]

But aren't you worried about the berries sprouting? (Japanese barberry is on the Federal Invasive list...)

HG

[Marge]

Oh no, I just put the individual spikes down (making sure they are dead!)

[The Helpful Gardener]

Shew!



Scott