That’s a fantastic tip, Carol! The Bonide Animal Granules I use to repel critters has garlic in it, so maybe I just need to try again! Of course I could also plant it in containers up higher than the critters can jump or climb too. This plant is so pretty!

Hi Jan, if you scroll up back to the top of the article, you’ll find the Table of Contents. Scroll down to #4 and click on “Chipmunks Love Portulaca and How to Repel Them” and that will take you directly to the section that lists the two products — both by Bonide — that work to repel critters. I hope this helps you!

I’m in Atlanta, Ga. I didn’t get the name of the product. Could pls send me the names again?thnx

Hi Jan — good question, as chipmunks love portulaca! I just updated my article above, and include links to two products that work for me — both by Bonide. I’ve used the granules for rabbits and have seen they work for chipmunks as well whenever they pop up into the garden. I hope these can work for you as well. These products won’t harm the Portulaca either, which is perfect! I hope this helps!

I’ve sprinkled cayenne pepper on the plant and that seems to have helped. Downside is I have to reapply after rain. I love your idea of changing it into a planter. Thanks for getting back with me!

Hi Dot, I wish I did have a good suggestion for you. The problem with birds, is once they’ve settled on a hanging basket — whether it’s too pick at the plant or to begin making a nest in the basket — it seems like there’s nothing we can do. Many gardeners have tried many things to make the birds go away, including putting bits of Irish Spring soap into their planters, or using some tulle netting placed over the top part of the basket that can’t be seen depending on how high the basket is hanging. The problem with any of these possible “solutions” is what you pointed out: the birds aren’t phased by anything. And trying plastic snakes is one of the best ideas too! I wish I had a solution to offer, but the only thing I can think of is to turn your hanging basket into a planter and place it near your front door or back door — somewhere near where people go in and out. Perhaps if the basket is down low, and the “hanging” part of the basket is removed, the birds won’t spend time there. I wish I had the perfect solution for you!