Moles can wreak havoc on your yard and garden, leaving unsightly tunnels and damaging plant roots. As a licensed exterminator and owner of a family-owned pest control company, it’s important to understand effective strategies for getting rid of moles.
In this article, we will explore various methods that can help you eliminate moles from your yard and garden, allowing you to reclaim a healthy and beautiful outdoor space.
- Identifying Mole Activity: Before implementing any mole control measures, it’s crucial to confirm mole activity in your yard. Signs of mole presence include raised tunnel ridges, mounds of soil, and damaged plant roots. Identifying these signs will ensure that you focus your efforts on mole removal rather than other pests.
- Natural Deterrents: To begin with, you can try natural deterrents that may discourage moles from making your yard their home:
a. Castor Oil: Moles dislike the smell and taste of castor oil. Mix one part castor oil with two parts water, and spray the mixture over mole-infested areas. Reapply after rainfall or watering for best results.
b. Vibrating Devices: Install vibrating devices, such as solar-powered mole repellents, in your yard. These devices emit low-frequency vibrations that disturb moles, making them less likely to stay in your garden.
- Physical Barriers: Creating physical barriers can help prevent moles from entering specific areas of your yard or garden:
a. Fencing: Install an underground barrier made of wire mesh or hardware cloth around garden beds or other vulnerable areas. Bury the barrier at least 2 feet deep to prevent moles from burrowing beneath it.
b. Raised Beds: Construct raised beds for your garden, as moles are less likely to tunnel through elevated soil. Use a barrier like hardware cloth at the bottom of the raised bed to prevent mole intrusion.
- Trapping: Trapping is an effective method for getting rid of moles. Here are two common types of mole traps:
a. Scissor Trap: Place a scissor-type mole trap in an active tunnel by identifying the most recent mole activity. Ensure the trap is set per the manufacturer’s instructions, and regularly check it for captures.
b. Harpoon Trap: Another effective trap is the harpoon trap, which impales the mole as it moves through the tunnel. Similar to the scissor trap, set it in an active tunnel and monitor it regularly.
- Chemical Control: If natural deterrents and trapping methods haven’t provided satisfactory results, you may consider using chemical control methods:
a. Mole Baits: Choose a mole bait that contains bromethalin, a potent toxin that effectively kills moles. Follow the instructions carefully and place the bait in active tunnels or near mole mounds. Exercise caution if you have pets or children and keep them away from treated areas.
b. Fumigants: Fumigants can be used to eliminate moles from their tunnels. These products emit toxic gases, usually aluminum phosphide, which penetrate the tunnels and kill the moles. However, fumigants should only be used by professionals due to the potential hazards associated with their application.
- Professional Assistance: If all your efforts fail to control the mole population or the infestation becomes severe, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance from a licensed pest control company. Professional exterminators have the expertise and tools to effectively eliminate moles while adhering to safety protocols.
Conclusion
Getting rid of moles in your yard and garden requires a systematic approach, including identification, natural deterrents, physical barriers, trapping, and potentially chemical control methods. Remember to follow all safety guidelines and local regulations when implementing these strategies.