Introduction
Mole invasions can cause havoc in your garden or lawn. Moles dig ridges into your perfectly tended lawn or garden while destroying the structural integrity of your soil. Getting rid of moles can be quite challenging, especially if you don’t know how to do it effectively. This article offers detailed insights into the different methods you can use to eradicate moles effectively.
Natural Remedies
Natural methods are an eco-friendly way to repel moles. Castor oil, garlic, and peppermint oil are some of the natural ingredients that can repel moles effectively. Despite the effectiveness of these remedies, they are not immediate solutions.
Castor oil is a natural ingredient that contains a compound called ricinoleic acid that irritates the moles’ respiratory system and causes them to leave the area. Peppermint oil, on the other hand, has a strong smell that repels moles. Garlic acts as a natural repellent by producing an odor that moles cannot tolerate.
To use the ingredients, mix castor oil with water in equal proportions and spray on moles’ pathways. Alternatively, crush garlic and mix with water until you have a garlic solution, then spray it around the mole hills in your garden. To use peppermint oil, add 5 or 6 drops to a cup of water and spray the solution around the mole infested areas.
The biggest advantage of using natural remedies is that there are no harmful chemicals involved. However, natural remedies take time before the effects become visible, and they are not 100% effective like other methods, such as traps.
Traps
Traps are an effective way to physically remove moles from your garden or lawn. There are two types of traps you can use to catch moles: snap traps and live traps.
Snap traps involve laying spring-loaded traps in the moles’ paths; when the mole walks into it, the spring triggers, killing the mole instantly. Live traps capture the mole and allow you to relocate it to a different location safely.
The most effective traps are the ones placed at the entrance of the mole tunnels. First, identify the areas that the moles use to traverse your garden; then, dig into the ground and place the traps inside the mole tunnels.
The pros of using traps are that they are effective, humane, and provide immediate results. The downside is that they can be a bit expensive, and sometimes moles can return to your garden even after you have successfully relocated them.
Flood their tunnels
Flooding is an old but effective way to get rid of moles. It drowns them in their tunnels, and they cannot dig themselves out. This method requires access to a water source, and you will need to put the hose directly into the mole’s tunnel and flood it with water until it runs out through the other end.
If you decide to use this method, be careful not to cause flooding or water damage to your garden. Also, keep monitoring your garden for moles’ new tunnels or signs of their comeback.
The advantage of this method is that it is cheap and relatively easy to do. However, it may take some time before you get rid of all the moles.
Vibrating Devices (Mole Repellent)
Vibrating devices are products that emit sound or vibrations to repel moles. They are designed to simulate predators that threaten moles, making them avoid the area or flee. They are easy to install and don’t require any chemicals or labor.
However, their effectiveness is limited, and they usually only have an impact in the short term. Also, they work by creating an unpleasant environment around your garden that deter moles. This can also deter other animals or insects that you may want in your garden, such as birds, bees, or toads.
Poison Baits
Poison baits are a more harsh solution to get rid of moles. They involve using chemicals that the moles consume, causing their death. It involves buying a mole killer product and putting the bait in the mole’s pathway.
The advantage of this method is that the baits are highly effective and can eradicate the mole problem once and for all. However, it can be a dangerous solution if not used properly, and you should keep them away from non-targeted animals.
Professional Help
If you have tried different methods without success, you may need to seek professional help. Pest control professionals can help to get rid of your mole problem using various techniques such as traps, baits, or repellents.
When looking for a pest control company, make sure you choose a reputable and experienced company. It’s worth obtaining quotes and doing a comparison, as costs can vary significantly depending on the size of your garden and the severity of the mole problem.
Lawn Maintenance
Maintaining your lawn is an essential part of preventing moles from invading your garden. Keeping it trimmed and free of debris is particularly important.
Work on your garden edges by planting deep-rooted shrubs or flowers along the perimeter of your garden. This will prevent moles from burrowing into your garden from the outside.
Another thing to consider is the type of soil and the purposeful watering of the lawn to prevent dehydrated, dry earth.
Conclusion
Eradicating moles effectively is crucial in maintaining a healthy and beautiful garden. The methods discussed above provide workable solutions to get rid of your mole problem. Remember, different remedies have various advantages and limitations; therefore, it’s important to consider what works best for you and your garden.
The best options are by far the natural remedies, traps, lawn maintenance, and professional help. These methods are reliable and safe.
