enthusiasts have been advised of a simple but effective technique to prevent crops being damaged by wildlife. For thousands of years, farmers and gardeners alike have tried and tested various ways to prevent animals from , to limited effect.

From the old fashioned scarecrow to the more modern use of pesticides, attempts to shield plants against critters vary wildly with different people preferring different methods. Many of the most effective solutions are too pricey for your amateur garden enthusiast but a simple trick could go a long way to ensure plants are protected from curious creatures. Farm Flavour suggest that simply placing plastic forks around plants could be enough to deter animals from helping themselves to your hard work.

They said: "Before you toss that box of unused plastic forks from last year's holiday gathering, consider using them in your garden.

"Placing forks in the soil around your plants will discourage animals like raccoons, cats, squirrels and deer from wandering into the garden and helping themselves to your crops."

In theory, it is believed that sharp-looking cutlery makes approaching pests think twice about getting too close, leading to them avoiding the area.

There is no evidence available as to how successful the technique is in deterring unwanted visitors but a non-invasive method with no negative impacts could mean many gardeners believe they have nothing to lose by trying.

If that method fails, the experts have plenty more novel ideas for gardening lovers to try their hand at, such as fertilising plants with and using .

They said: "Coffee grounds are a wonderful garden fertilizer, rich in phosphorus, potassium, nitrogen and magnesium. They can also serve as pest control against slugs and snails.

"Some even say they boast natural anti-fungal properties, which is a huge win for anyone hoping to grow healthy produce."

On the strange use of , they added: "Consider using a little cayenne pepper to keep those pesky critters away.

"Cayenne won't harm your plants, but it will keep unwanted animals and bugs from munching on all your hard work.

"All you need to do is sprinkle a quarter cup throughout your garden every few days and you'll begin to see healthier plants without chewed-up leaves and half-eaten fruit."