Squirrel-proof planting

Every spring I have the same problem. The squirrels watch me as I plant my first seeds, then sneak into my garden once I'm gone to see if I buried anything tasty. I've looked around for a solution that would be cheap, easy, and effective and settled on wire mesh. I used a 4x4 foot section of 1cm wire mesh, laying it over a newly planted area for a few days until the squirrels forget. They are generally only interested in freshly disturbed earth. The mesh has another use once planting is done. I throw it over a wheelbarrow and use it as a screen to remove large bits from finished compost, leaving only the fine, dark humus.