Moles, while harmless, can turn a well-kept garden into a series of dirt mounds. Here’s how to address the situation, from understanding these creatures to humane removal methods.
Understanding Your Unwanted Garden Guest
Moles only have eyes – and appetite – for insects. Not your crops.
Their presence is actually a sign of rich and healthy soil, which they help regulate by feeding mainly on earthworms, but also on undesirables such as white grubs and chafer larvae.
Even though molehills can be unsightly, moles don't damage your soil; on the contrary, they aerate and loosen the soil.
If molehills don’t bother you, leaving moles be can benefit your garden. Their dug-up soil is great for planting elsewhere.
When Moles Must Go
If a flawless lawn is your goal, you might want to gently encourage moles to move on. Here's how to do it without harming them:
Catching and Releasing Moles
Find the Main Tunnel: Look for the primary path moles use, often along solid garden edges. From here, smaller tunnels branch out.
Set a Humane Trap: Using sticks, block off all but one exit. Wait by a fresh mound and gently use a stick to guide the mole out without injury. Capture it using thick gloves to avoid bites.
Consider Mechanical Traps: If live capture fails, carefully set a rusted trap (moles are wary of metal scents) in the main tunnel. Wear gloves to mask human scent.
Coffee Grounds: A Mole Repellent
Despite its usefulness against other pests, baking soda doesn’t deter moles. Coffee grounds, however, spread over molehills and tunnels might discourage their digging.
