Question
I keep a number of hibiscus plants on my deck.  The squirrels have started eating the leaves.  I would like to
know what I can do to prevent this from happening.  I live in the western part of Kentucky.  I appreciate your help.

Answer
First, cuttings can occur for a variety of reasons, such as nest building, seeking moisture, or seeking food.  If you have a bird feeder and removed it, they may be overpopulated and seeking food elsewhere. (Never use an unmodified bird feeder as you will only create problems down the road, see http://icwdm.org/Prevention/birdfeeders.asp  for more information on bird feeders and their modification).

Second, you have some options. You can spray taste repellent such as Ropel. The label may allow its use on plants. (Be sure to follow directions and never use the product on plants intended for human consumption).  

Third, fence the plants so that the squirrels can抰 get to them. Use ?inch weave hardware cloth or at least nothing larger than ?inch weave. Don抰 use chicken wire as it isn抰 strong enough.  If trees are relatively isolated, from those you don抰 own, you can wrap the trunks with at least 18 inches of aluminumn flashing. This way the squirrels can抰 get a grip on the trunk to climb. Place the flaishing at least 4 feet off the ground. If you must use multiple sheets to wrap, be sure the overlap is always on the top over the sheet below, like shingles. Otherwise squirrels will use the edge to climb.

Fourth, employ population reduction through trapping. Check state and local laws to see if it is legal. Visit http://icwdm.org/handbook/rodents/TreeSquirrels.asp on how to trap them. Don抰 think that translocation of wildlife is necessarily more humane (even if your state allows it) than simply euthanizing the animal. An animal that is moved from its native area has to 1. find a new home 2. find new food and water sources 3. while avoiding predators and 4 do so before nightfall or daybreak (depending on species) so that it doesn抰 freeze to death etc.  Translocation also stresses the resident population because you now introduced a newcomer who has to fight for territory. Not to mention any potential diseases that the newcomer may bring to the locale or contract from the new area.  See also http://icwdm.org/wildlife/euthanasia/relocation.asp

Feel free to write back if you have any further questions. Remember there is no magic in this business. So don抰 bother with those silly ultrasonic devices. Most animals can抰 hear in the ultrasonic range anyway.

Disclaimer: As with any activity, remember that animal damage control comes with its own risks and problems which can include but are not limited to legalities, health threats, and personal liabilities. Be sure to follow all state laws governing wildlife and make sure you have a thorough understanding on how to resolve the animal damage complaint. My advice is only as good as your understanding of me and my understanding of your situation. If you have any questions be sure to write back.