Last year was my first attempt at square foot gardening and it was a complete FAILURE! Despite trying every tip or trick I could find, my garden was eaten by the rabbits and squirrels that frequent our yard and didn't get a single fruit or vegetable out of my garden. So this year I decided a completely covered cage was the only sure way to protect it.
After getting a few ideas online, my husband made one from PVC pipe, chicken wire and zip ties.
I got my square foot garden frame from Sam's Club and it's not the traditional 4'x4' size. I couldn't have a cage that just lifted on and off like most of them I'd seen -- it would've been too awkward to maneuver.
I wanted something with "doors" so I could access my plants easily. So my husband made some hinged doors using zip ties.
His idea was brilliant! It stays shut with stakes on the outside (though we'll probably get a little latch at some point) and the two doors swing open so easily.
I am so excited for my plants to grow! This year we planted sugar snap peas, zucchini, bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, watermelon, cucumbers, carrots and beets. We also have strawberries in a hanging basket and cherry tomatoes in a garden pot. I admit I stand out there every day, just looking at my garden and grinning giddily. Now those pesky critters can't touch my plants and I will be able to enjoy the harvest. :)
