How to keep neighbors from taking garden food?

M

Marty W

New member
Our family has 2 small gardens, one in the front yard and one in the back. The backyard garden is usually left alone, but we find that it is nearly impossible to get anything from the one in the front yard because neighbors and neighbors children frequently come in and pick all the produce before it gets ripe (strawberries, peaches, raspberries).

We've tried talking to them and instructing the parents but they generally don't pay any attention. In addition, some of the perpetrators have turned out to be people we don't know and/or have not talked to in a long time so what's up with that? Other than putting up a fence, what would you suggest for ways to keep them out?

Do you ever have trouble with people coming in and taking your hard-earned produce?
 
If they are picking your produce before it is ripe, I think they are trying to send you a message...don't grow a garden in your front yard. It brings down the curb appeal of the area and lowers property values.

Personally, I could care less, but there are some people who are obsessed with yards.

I would use fencing and a gate with a lock. They have no business being in your yard without your permission. And if one of the children became ill from either eating your unripe berries or thinking that berries on all bushes are ok to eat, you are going to get the blame.
 
Two signs come to mind:

"Pick-your-own-produce: $25 a quart."

"No trespassing. Violators will be prosecuted"

Then be prepared to follow up. It won't take more than one or two for word to get around.
 
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