lawn moles causing havoc? 7 compassionate strategies recommended by pest control specialists to deter them
Digging, burrowing beasts - moles, oh moles - they know how to put a damper on a perfect lawn! With their sneaky tunneling and cratered mounds of soil, they can turn the greens of your yard into a bumpy mess.
But fear not, lawn lovers! These dimpled nuisances aren't out to get ya, they're merely after yer grubs and earthworms, leaving your plants unharmed, for the most part. It's all about natural pest control when dealing with these little lawn destruction derby champions.
So, how do you outsmart these subterranean saboteurs? Here are seven ways to deal with a mole problem, without causing harm to these underground critters or other creatures that call your yard home.
Spotting the Clues
Nicole Carpenter, President of Black Pest Prevention, suggests keeping an eye out for:
- Winding, raised tunnels across your yard (think mini speed bumps)
- Volcano-shaped mounds of soil (not flat like gopher mounds)
- Soft, uneven ground underfoot - especially early in the morning or after rain (active tunnels collapse easily)
- Mole activity near moist, shady areas and near sprinklers (worms and grubs love a good party!)
- Unexplained yellowing or wilting of plants without visible pests (moles can upset plant roots as they hunt for grubs)
1. Eliminate the Feast
If your lawn is their buffet, you can try to sway them to another dinner spot by battling grubs, a mole's favorite treat, with beneficial garden nematodes. These tiny parasites can help reduce pests, but be sure to select the right variety to avoid damaging your plants.
2. Scare them with Style
Certain plants, like marigolds, daffodils, and alliums, send off scents that moles find less than charming. Planting these strategically can help deter mole activity without resorting to harsh chemicals. Used coffee grounds or homemade bug sprays can also add to this odor-driven deterrent.
3. Rehome them Happily
Trapping and relocating moles humanely is the most effective way to get rid of them without causing harm. To do this, find the active tunnel, place a humane trap in it, trap the mole, and carry it a good distance away to a wooded, shaded area.
4. Go for the Sonic Boom
Solar-powered sonic repellents, like spiral wind chimes, use ultrasonic pulses to mimic seismic waves. This can trick moles into thinking another animal is invading their turf, encouraging them to leave your yard for greener pastures.
5. Change the Tune
Keeping your lawn properly aerated, avoiding excessive watering, and maintaining a neat trim can make it less appealing to moles. By making your grass a less tasty treat, you can reduce the chances of a mole invasion.
6. Roadblocks aren't just for cars!
Using a physical barrier made of materials like hardware cloth can frustrate moles and prevent them from reaching areas where they'll find their favorite foods. Dig down and surround garden beds with this barrier to discourage their foraging.
7. Welcome the Predators
Encouraging natural predators, like owls, hawks, foxes, and even rodents, can help control mole populations. Installing owl nesting boxes or creating habitat for other predators can lead to a more balanced ecosystem in your yard.
Avoid methods that harm moles, like castor oil and mothballs, as they can be both ineffective and cruel. Moles are active during the spring, so implement your strategies early to keep your lawn in tip-top shape all year long!
References:[1] "How to Keep Moles Out of Your Gardens and Lawns." The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/moles-how-to-keep-them-out-of-your-yard-2877510[2] "Beneficial Garden Nematodes." Gardener's Supply Company. https://www.gardeners.com/learn/meet-beneficial-nematodes-insect-pest-control/[3] "How to Keep Moles Away with Marigolds." The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/marigolds-as-a-mole-repellent-3309285[4] "How to Use Castor Oil to Keep Moles Out of Your Garden." The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/castor-oil-as-a-mole-repellent-2132709
- To maintain a well-groomed home-and-garden lifestyle, consider implementing strategies to deter moles from your lawn, such as planting mole-deterrent flowers, using natural repellents, or trapping and rehoming them humanely.
- By embracing lawn care practices that focus on pest control and mole prevention, you can safeguard the health of your plants, enjoy a level lawn, and contribute to a balanced home-and-garden ecosystem.
