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Like many animals, gophers are bothered by strong scents. Peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil,  and coffee grounds can be used as deterrents against these pests. Similarly, you can try planting lavender, rosemary, sage, geraniums, or pine trees, as these plants all have strong smells that can ward away gophers. While it may be less pleasant to work with, coyote urine scares gophers by tricking the pests into thinking your yard is a predator hot spot.

If a wild animal enters your yard, prioritize safety for yourself and the animal. Remember to avoid direct contact and always keep a safe distance. Contact local authorities or a wildlife rehabilitation center if the animal is hurt or in distress. Both sources should be able to guide you on how to proceed and send help if needed. Please wait for the animal to leave naturally for non-threatening situations, as many will. To deter future visits, implement measures like securing trash cans, sealing entry points, and removing potential food sources.

No, pest-repellent plants can only reduce the number of pests in your garden—they won’t repel all of them. So, for example, a plant like catnip that repels mosquitoes won’t completely eradicate them from your yard.

Using chemicals with harsh odors is a natural way to repel bears. While the animal’s strong sense of smell is an asset in the animal kingdom, it’s a weakness here. Simply place bleach or ammonia in a bucket and leave it outside day or night. Ironically, bears also dislike the smell of pine, so you can use pine oil or a pine-based cleaning agent. Avoid using cleaning products with fruit or citrus smells, however.