I’ve discovered a fresh herb that squirrels hate, but you will adore – and it’s an ideal form of natural pest control

Close up of peppermint plant with tiny lilac flowers.

I love encouraging wildlife into my backyard, squirrels included. But when they start to dig huge holes in my beautiful containers and the raised beds, it's hard not to get frustrated about the damage they cause.

I’ve tried leaving food out for them – a nut grazing table, no less – and adding netting over my more delicate vegetable crops, but they persist. And it’s not their fault; they are merely following their instincts and looking for food.