When mole hills suddenly mar your pristine lawn, it can be a bitter pill to swallow considering the time and effort you invest in maintaining it. Not to fret! Tackling these subterranean pests may seem daunting, but with the right methods at your fingertips, you can regain control of your yard. From natural remedies to professional assistance, let us explore the top five efficient strategies to eradicate these unwelcome guests.
Method 1: Use of Mole Repellents
Your first line of defense against moles could be commercially available mole repellents. These products contain substances that moles dislike, hence deterring them from visiting your lawn. They come in various forms including granules, liquids, or sound-emitting devices.
- Types of mole repellents: Castor oil-based, sonic & ultrasonic repellents, and worm-shaped baits are some common examples.
- Steps on how to apply repellents in the lawn: Discard any remaining molehills or tunnels, apply the repellent as per manufacturer’s direction, then water the area to permeate the soil with the deterrent.
- Best time to apply mole repellents: Optimal timing largely depends on the product label. However, applying before the rainy season can give effective results.
Mole repellents can be a great non-invasive method to manage moles. However, their effectiveness largely depends on the accuracy of application and consistency in usage. Beware of potential environmental concerns related to chemical-based repellents.
Method 2: Trapping
If repellents don’t work or your prefer a hands-on approach, trapping is an alternative. Mole traps are designed to catch the mole in its tunnel, and come in various types depending on your comfort level.
- Types of Mole Traps
- Spike traps pierce the mole as it passes through, scissor traps snare the creature in its jaws, while choker loop traps strangle the mole as it moves through the tunnel.
- Steps to setup mole traps
- Choose an active tunnel (indicated by a fresh mound), prepare the spot according to the type of trap, and install taking care not to collapse the tunnel. Stay clear of human scent to avoid suspicion from moles.
- Ideal locations to place traps
- Primary tunnels that moles frequently use, typically straight long ones leading from the nest to the feeding area, proving best for trap placement.
Pro Tip: Don moleskin or disposable gloves to avoid human scent on the traps – moles have an exceptional sense of smell!