What Will Stop Birds From Chewing on House Plants?

When kept as indoor pets, birds can often destroy house plants by chewing and eating them. Birds instinctively act this way toward plants because of the curiosity and survival methods they inherited from their ancestors. Prevent damage to your house plants by making the leaves and flowers less palatable to your bird. There are several easy methods of doing so.

  1. Causes

    • In the wild, birds often feed off of plant seeds, leaves and the insects that inhabit the plant. According to the All-Birds article, "Bird Feeding and Foods," seeds are a part of a bird's natural diet. Because of this, birds will instinctively be attracted to house plants. Initial curiosity leads to chewing and destroying the leaves, digging in the soil and attempting to perch on the plant.

    Home Remedies

    • Garlic oil, a common bird repellent, sprayed on the leaves of the plant will add an undesirable flavor that will discourage the bird from chewing. Safe for birds---it is even used as an occasional dietary supplement---garlic oil will leave a harmless residue on the leaves of the plant for up to a week. Garlic oil is usually used for cooking and can be purchased from natural food distributors.

    Products

    • There are several safe, store-bought products marketed specifically for this common problem and can stop birds from chewing on house plants. Garlic Barrier, a spray made of highly concentrated garlic, has been used on crops, gardens and house plants alike to safely deter birds. Other products to discourage birds from chewing plants, available from most garden stores, often use garlic as the active ingredient.

    Physical Barriers

    • Other solutions which will prevent birds from chewing on house plants include creating a physical barrier, which is usually a temporary fix. Moving the plants to a room in which the bird is not allowed or putting protective wire around the plant will easily solve the problem.

    Safety

    • According to The Cockatiel Cottage's article on "Safe Plants for Birds," you should be aware of the plants you bring into your home, as some are toxic. Research what plants are safe for the bird to eat, even if you do not want the bird to eat it, as deterrent sprays do not guarantee that the bird will not ingest the plant. Ensure whoever handles the plant and oil does not have allergic reactions to garlic.