How can a greenhouse be protected from mice? - briefly
Seal all gaps, install fine‑mesh screening on vents and doors, and use snap traps or ultrasonic repellents to prevent rodent entry.
How can a greenhouse be protected from mice? - in detail
Mice infiltrate greenhouse structures in search of shelter and food, causing damage to plants, contaminating produce, and gnawing wiring and irrigation components. Effective control requires a combination of physical barriers, habitat modification, and targeted trapping or baiting.
Physical exclusion is the first line of defense. Install fine‑mesh hardware cloth (¼‑inch or smaller) around all openings, including vents, doors, and service shafts. Seal gaps around pipe penetrations with steel wool or silicone caulk. Cover the floor with a continuous layer of metal or thick plastic sheeting; any gaps between the ground and the structure should be backfilled with soil or gravel to eliminate entry points. Overhead vents can be fitted with hinged metal flaps that close automatically when not in use.
Habitat reduction lowers the attraction of the greenhouse to rodents. Keep the surrounding area free of dense vegetation, debris, and compost piles that provide cover. Store seed, feed, and organic matter in sealed metal containers. Remove fallen fruit and plant debris daily, and maintain a clean drainage system to prevent standing water, which can encourage foraging activity.
When exclusion and sanitation are insufficient, integrate trapping and baiting strategies. Use snap traps or electric devices positioned along walls, near known runways, and close to entry points. Bait traps with high‑fat foods such as peanut butter or dried fruit, refreshing them regularly. If anticoagulant baits are employed, place them in tamper‑proof stations away from non‑target animals and follow label instructions to avoid contamination of crops.
Regular monitoring completes the program. Conduct weekly inspections of mesh screens, door seals, and trap locations. Document any new gnaw marks or droppings, and repair breaches promptly. By combining sturdy barriers, diligent housekeeping, and controlled removal methods, a greenhouse can be kept largely free of mouse activity, preserving plant health and infrastructure integrity.