How to Get Rid of a Star Nosed & Eastern Mole
Gardening and landscaping is an almost therapeutic hobby for many people. What can be problematic, though, is when your hard work gets destroyed by various garden pests. Things such as weeds and rabbits can cause a large amount of damage to gardens and lawns. One other major pest is the mole. Two different kinds, the Eastern mole and the star-nosed mole, are particularly hard on gardens and lawns. They can burrow deep under lawns, causing raised areas and noticeable grass discoloration. Getting rid of moles should be done quickly, when they are first discovered, to keep from having to deal with a population boom when they breed. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
-
1
Use a castor oil-based repellent to get rid of the moles. These can be purchased in spray or granule products. By using a repellent that is castor oil-based, you are ensuring the safety of any humans or pets that may come across the repellent. Wait until a relatively dry time to use the repellent, as rain can dilute it and you will have to treat your lawn with it again.
-
2
Set off smoke bombs within their tunnels to try and smoke them out. These smoke bombs must be placed every ten to twelve feet and set off simultaneously for maximum effectiveness. Once the moles are smoked out, collapse their tunnels to discourage them from returning.
-
-
3
Spray pesticides on your lawn to reduce their food supply. These moles dine mainly on grubs, worms and beetles. Choose an insecticide specifically for them. With a diminished food supply, the moles will move on to a new yard.
-
4
Set mole traps as a last resort. These traps must be placed within their tunnels for effectiveness. Follow the instructions of whatever trap brand you purchase to set it up. Once a mole has been trapped, dispose of the mole and reuse the traps until there are no more moles left.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Make sure that whatever repellent you choose is non-toxic to humans and any pets you have that may roam your lawn. If you choose to use smoke bombs, you may have to redo them frequently to keep the moles away. Call an exterminator if your pest problem is one that you cannot control on your own.
Pesticides can be toxic to pets and humans. Read the label of whatever pesticide you choose to make sure they won't hurt you or your family.