Looking for the best groundhog repellent or deterrent in 2020?
Then you're in the right place!
You will learn the following from our professional product review:
- Our #1 overall best groundhog repellent choice
- How repellents and deterrents work to deter groundhogs
- How to use a groundhog repellent to keep them away from your property
- The typical lifespan of deterrents and how long they will last you
Continue reading to get the full spectrum of information about groundhog repellents, or skip ahead to our top pick.
| Image | Product | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick  | I Must Garden Anumal Repellent
|
| View on Amazon | |
 | Rabbit and Groundhog OUT
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| View on Amazon | |
 | Thanos Solar Powered Groundhog and Mole Repellent Spikes
|
| View on Amazon | |
 | Exterminator's Choice Rodent Defense Small Animal Repellent and Deterrent
|
| View on Amazon | |
 | Repellex Systemic Granular
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| View on Amazon |
Our Overall #1 Rated Pick
(updated as of 10/21/2019)
- All natural ingredients
- Easy to use granules
- Non-toxic
Out of the groundhog repellents and deterrents we reviewed, our personal favorite is the I Must Garden Groundhog Repellent. This repellent is strong, long lasting, weather proof, because it doesn't hurt the environment, is all-natural, and has proven results.
Please remember that groundhog repellents are not 100% effective and some woodchucks will not be deterred from the delicious snacks in the garden.
If you're interested in learning more about groundhog repellents or deterrents or want to read more about the other products we considered, see below!
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Groundhog Repellents/Deterrents We Reviewed
Short on time? Take a look below for the top 5 in our list. Otherwise, check out our buying guide.
- I Must Garden Groundhog Repellent (Our Top Pick)
- Rabbit and Groundhog OUT
- Thanos Solar Powered Groundhog and Mole Repellent Spikes
- Exterminator's Choice Rodent Defense Small Animal Repellent and Deterrent
- Repellex Systemic Animal Repellent Granular
But first, you can watch this video to understand why groundhogs are so hard to get rid of!
What Is a Groundhog Repellent or Deterrent?
A groundhog repellent or deterrent is exactly what it sounds like. It can be a spray, granule, or ultrasonic device which keeps groundhogs, also called woodchucks, away from certain patches of land. Many people use them around their garden, outdoor sheds, vegetables, or other potential targets.
But before you decide to target your groundhog problem with repellents, double check that groundhogs are really the pests that you're dealing with.
How Do Repellents Work?
After you ensure that groundhogs are the problem, you have to choose the right repellent. Most repellents which are sprays or granules, produce an odor which is unpleasant for groundhogs.
The animal will smell it and be deterred from approaching the plants beyond the barrier. Some also contain materials which are toxic when ingested and could hurt the groundhog, like ammonia.
An ultrasonic deterrent is different. These small devices supposedly emit a high-pitched sound on a frequency humans can't hear. It's extremely unpleasant and groundhogs will avoid them as much as possible.
Chemical vs. Ultrasonic
The main difference between these two options are the inherent risk for the groundhog or the plants near the repellents. Chemicals are more effective but some can be harmful to animals and humans. Sometimes they will leave toxic byproducts behind as well.
Ultrasonic repellents or deterrents are more expensive but don't include toxic elements. However, scientists are still undecided about whether they actually work or not, which can be bad news for the homeowner who invests in one.
These repellents use noise or ultrasonic pulses in the ground to scare away groundhogs.
What Are the Risks of Repellents?
As with any repellent, there is always the risk of chemicals being ingested or sinking into the soil in the area where it is applied. Nowadays, a lot of deterrents are non-toxic, but users should always be wary of ingredients like ammonia.
There is also a chance that the groundhog will ignore the deterrent. If this happens, then your garden and plants are still at risk of being eaten. Most pest control experts recommend trying a different repellent in this case or spraying some type of pepper spray on plants that are being nibbled.
How to Use a Repellent
Most repellents come with instructions that should be followed to the letter. Failing to do so can result in unintended and unpleasant consequences, such as ingesting toxic chemicals or even attracting a different form of wildlife. For instance, coyote urine might bring different visitors to the yard.
As with most outdoor pest control products, be sure to read the instructions and follow them carefully.
Know Your Enemy
One of the most important steps to using any form of repellent or deterrent is to know your groundhog's habits. If you have a creature that really likes your vegetable garden, than the repellent needs to be near that area.
Read also: What do groundhogs like to eat?
If your friendly neighborhood woodchuck constantly digs under the garden shed, then the deterrent should be placed there instead.
Do Groundhog Repellents Work?
Groundhog repellents are a mixed bag. Some of them work, but others don't seem to have the desired effect. The most common reason for a deterrent not working is that the woodchuck itself is simply too determined or tenacious to be stopped by a spray or noise.
If this is the case, consider looking into a groundhog trap to catch the persistent pest.
Read also: What are other methods of getting rid of groundhogs?
How Much Does a Deterrent Cost?
Most woodchuck deterrents are relatively inexpensive. Almost all products contain multiple uses and are guaranteed to last for at least two weeks to a month.
Some ultrasonic repellents will be more expensive, but they last closer to six months.
Groundhog Repellents/Deterrents Reviewed
In the below section we break down each of our product recommendations in a little more detail.
- All natural ingredients
- Easy to use granules
- Non-toxic
I Must Garden Animal Repellent is a repellent that uses granules to keep groundhogs and other plant-eating pests away. The granules are long-lasting and weather-resistant.
This repellent is non-toxic and doesn't contain harmful chemicals or poison. It utilizes natural ingredients that are safe for people, pets, and the environment
This groundhog repellent comes in a container and can be sprinkled around the yard safely. A single container weights 2.5 lbs and can be used multiple times.
Pros
Cons
- Contains essential oils
- Smells good
- Relatively waterproof
Rabbit and Groundhog OUT is an easy-to-use spray that utilizes essential oils for an effective repellent with a fresh scent. The repellent doesn't wash away easily and can survive at least one rainstorm.
The Deer Out groundhog repellent comes in a 40 oz. bottle and can be used around gardens, vegetables, and other plants.
This spray is easy to use and requires little to no preparation.
This product is useful to individuals who have pest problems but would like a more natural alternative to traditional repellents.
Pros
Cons
- Solar-powered
- Infrared sensor
- Easy to install
- 4 hour charge lasts 5 days
The Thanos Solar Powered Groundhog and Mole Repellent Spikes works on groundhogs and other pesky animals that like to feed on the plants in yards and gardens. They can be stuck into the ground and use sonic pulses to repel pests.
These spikes are solar-powered and don't require batteries. A 4-hour charge should last 5 days. If place the suggested distance from each other, they have a maximum 70 ft diameter.
This product is a good choice for people who want a low maintenance repellent that's non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and easy to use.
Pros
Cons
- Easy to use
- Long-lasting effects
- All natural ingredients
Exterminator's Choice Rodent Defense is a convenient spray designed to repel small burrowing pests like groundhogs, moles, and voles.
This repellent should not affect pets and is environmentally friendly. However, it can stain painted or stained areas.
Due to the size of the spray bottle, this groundhog repellent is ideal for small problem areas.
Pros
Cons
- Convenient to use
- Weather-resistant
- Long lasting
The Repellex Systemic Granular animal repellent comes as granules in a container weighing roughly 3.35 lbs. They can be sprinkled all around a yard and even work on ornaments and garden lights.
Plants can absorb this deterrent, making the taste unpleasant to animals. Humans should not eat anything touched by the granules. It can also be sprinkled around target plants.
One jar of Repellex is supposed to last for up to one year. Once absorbed, it is waterproof and rain-resistant.
Pros
Cons
Our Top Pick: I MUST GARDEN Groundhog Repellent
Out of all of the repellents reviewed, our personal favorite is the I MUST GARDEN Groundhog Repellent because:
- It contains all-natural ingredients
- It comes in easy to use granules
- The formula is non-toxic
This groundhog repellent is long-lasting and weather-resistant. Depending on the size of your yard, the product can be applied multiple times before a new container is needed.
People will have different needs when it comes to groundhogs. Some want to kill them, others want to trap them, and still others just want them to leave the garden alone.
Ultimately, you should choose which method is best for you.
Other Groundhog Product Reviews
Curious about other groundhog-related products? Check out our other detailed guides to help you deal with your pest problems.
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Our pest experts review each company for quality, cost, customer service, safety, and 100’s of other important factors and assess a rating out of 100. Below are our top 3 picks based on that review for pest removal. We’ve set up a direct line with each company so you can get fast free quotes right now.
Rating: 97.50
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Our #1 Ranked For: Termites, Bed Bugs, and Larger Infestations
Rating: 95.70
Our #1 Ranked For: Mosquito Removal, Fleas, Ticks, Wasps, And Other Stinging Insects