Question
I live in Massachusetts south of boston (east bridgewater)something is burrowing in my flower garden and eating hyacinth bulbs and other flowering bulbs.  about a 4-5 inch holes leaving dirt at entrance also tunneling just below the surface exposing bulbs. and eating bulb and early spring growth.  no droppings.
this is happening during the night as my dogs bark and run to the door.
I hope you can help identify it as this has never happened before and I have lived in the same house for over fifty years.
phyllis

Answer
Phyllis, the problem is a burrowing rodent; most likely field mice, voles, moles, woodchucks, or chipmunks.

To protect wintering bulbs from rodents, I have heard of gardeners soaking their bulbs in a solution of 1 gallon water mixed with 2 tbs. crushed garlic and 2 tbs. of lemon ammonia. I personally do not recommend this only because most bulbs are very susceptible to rot and fungus disease which may be induced by soaking. However, you can mix this solution in spray bottle and apply it over the area where the bulbs are growing.

I personally plant daffodils. They have a natural repelling smell that deters animals from burrowing. They are also poisonous to rodents and are therefore never bothered by pests.

One other alternative is to protect the vulnerable bulbs like tulips, hyacinths, and lilies with a cage made out of chicken wire. Place the bulbs inside the enclosure when planting. The stalks will grow through the holes of the cage while the bulbs are safely inside.

One last deterrent is crushed stone. I use diatomaceous earth, a product that can be sprinkled around the area and worked into the soil. These are finely crushed fossilized rocks that will cut rodents and slugs while deterring them from disturbing the soil. You can purchase this product at most garden centers or on the internet through companies like Planet Natural or Gardens Alive.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike