Understanding Moles
Moles are small burrowing animals that create underground tunnels as they search for earthworms and insects. While they can aerate the soil and control harmful bugs, their tunneling can damage plant roots, lawns, and pastures. Before you begin mole control, consider the following:
- Identify the pest: Mole mounds resemble small volcanoes, while gopher mounds are typically fan-shaped.
- Weigh the benefits: Moles eat white grubs, snail larvae, and Japanese beetle larvae, which can be harmful to gardens.
Non-Lethal Control Options
If you decide to live with moles but want to minimize damage, here are some preventive and non-lethal options:
- Gopher Baskets: Use these wire baskets around individual plants to protect their roots from mole tunnels.
- Raised Beds with Gopher Wire: Line the bottom of raised beds with galvanized gopher wire for protection.
- Subterranean Fences: Install galvanized gopher wire at least two feet deep and six inches above ground, bending it outward at a 90-degree angle.
- Repellents: Products like Chase or Liquid Fence can deter moles from sensitive areas.
- Live Trapping: Check out our blog for tips on creating simple live traps and relocating moles to less sensitive areas.
Trapping Moles
When non-lethal options aren't enough, trapping is the most effective method for mole control. Keep these tips in mind:
- Use the right trap: Moles are sensitive to foreign objects, so use scissor-jaw, choker, or harpoon-style traps designed specifically for moles.
- Find active runways: Flatten surface runways and check if they are rebuilt within 24-48 hours. Rebuilt runways indicate mole activity.
- Locate permanent tunnels: Probe about 18 inches from a molehill and 8-12 inches deep to find their main tunnels.
- Set traps properly: Place traps so they straddle the tunnel, ensuring the trigger plate has loose dirt to rest on.
- Check traps regularly: If no mole is caught after two days, relocate the trap to another active area.
Ineffective Methods
According to experts, the following methods have been proven ineffective for mole control:
- Ultrasonic repellents
- Scare devices
- Chewing gum
- Mothballs
- Human hair or bleach
Conclusion
Protect your plants and lawns by effectively managing moles with the right tools and methods. Whether you choose non-lethal deterrents or traps, understanding mole behavior is key to successful control. Grow organic for life!
