Gardening can be a challenging endeavor, especially when pesky critters like moles invade your precious garden beds. Moles can wreak havoc on plants by burrowing tunnels underground, uprooting roots, and damaging the delicate balance of soil properties. While there are many methods to deter moles, one approach that has gained popularity is companion planting. The idea is to plant specific plants alongside each other to enhance their growth, improve soil quality, and repel pests like moles. But how does it work exactly? Let’s dive in and explore the benefits and tips for successful companion planting to prevent moles in your garden.
Why Companion Planting Works for Mole Control
Companion planting is an excellent technique to control pests and promote plant growth in gardens. It involves planting different species of plants near each other to benefit from their nutrient uptake, natural pest control abilities, and other positive effects. But did you know that companion planting also works for mole control? Moles can cause considerable damage to your garden, burrowing through the soil and creating unsightly mounds. Understanding how and why companion planting works against moles can help you create a healthy and beautiful garden. In this section, we’ll explore the benefits of companion planting for mole prevention and discuss how it can improve your garden’s health. To learn more about other mole prevention techniques, check out our best mole prevention tips.
1. Deters Moles from Favorite Plants
Companion planting can be an effective way to deter moles from invading and damaging your garden. One of the main ways this method works is by planting strong-smelling plants near the mole’s favorite plants. The strong scent of these plants will repel moles and divert them away from your vulnerable plants.
The following table shows some of the favorite plants of moles and their corresponding companion plants:
| Mole’s Favorite Plants | Companion Plant |
|---|---|
| Bulbs (tulips, daffodils, etc.) | Alliums, fritillarias |
| Root vegetables (potatoes, carrots, etc.) | Marigolds |
| Beans | Castor beans |
| Leafy greens (lettuce, kale, etc.) | Mole plant |
| Herbs (basil, parsley, etc.) | Garlic, chives |
Incorporating these companion plants will not only deter moles but also add visual interest and diversity to your garden. However, it is important to note that companion planting is not a foolproof method for mole control and may need to be combined with other techniques such as creating a mole barrier garden or using sonic repellents. Knowing more about mole behavior and infestations can help you choose the most effective mole prevention techniques for your specific situation.
2. Enhances the Growth of Certain Plants
Companion planting is not just about deterring pests with certain smells and tastes, but it can also enhance the growth of certain plants. Some companion plants are beneficial because they improve soil quality, add nutrients or provide shade, while others simply work to repel pests that can stunt plant growth. By planting certain plants together, gardeners can create a mutually beneficial relationship where both plants can thrive.
Here are some examples of companion plants that enhance the growth of other plants:
- Legumes: Legumes like beans and peas are known for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. This means that they convert nitrogen from the air into a form that other plants can use. By planting legumes in your garden, you can improve the overall nitrogen content of your soil, which can help other plants grow better.
- Borage: Borage is a herb that is known to attract bees to your garden. This is beneficial because bees help pollinate plants, which leads to better growth and improved crop yields.
- Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums are a beautiful flowering plant that can do wonders for the health of your garden. They are known to attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which can help control pests that can damage your plants.
- Herbs: Many herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme are known for their ability to improve soil quality and deter pests. For example, basil is known to repel mosquitoes and thrips, while rosemary and thyme can repel cabbage moths and whiteflies.
- Squash: Squash plants are known for their ability to provide shade and help keep the soil moist. This can be incredibly beneficial for plants that prefer cooler, shaded environments.
By planting these types of companion plants alongside your favorite vegetables and flowers, you can create a garden that is not only beautiful, but also healthy and productive. A well-designed garden that includes plants that enhance the growth of others can reduce the need for pesticides and other harmful chemicals, while also enriching the soil with nutrients and beneficial microbes. So, choose your companions wisely and start reaping the benefits of a healthier, more productive garden!
If you want to learn more about mole prevention in gardens, check out our article on creating a mole barrier garden or our tips on DIY mole prevention techniques.
3. Creates a Favorable Habitat for Natural Predators
Companion planting not only deters moles from their favorite plants and enhances plant growth, but it also creates a favorable habitat for natural predators. By adding certain plants to your garden, you can attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and praying mantises, which feed on moles’ prey, such as grubs and other insects.
Here are some plants that serve as natural predator magnets:
- Yarrow: Attracts hoverflies, ladybugs, and lacewings, which prey on aphids.
- Dill: Attracts predatory wasps that feed on tomato hornworms and cabbage worms.
- Borage: Attracts bees, which help pollinate plants, and ladybugs, which eat aphids.
- Nasturtium: Attracts aphids, which in turn attract ladybugs and other beneficial insects.
In addition to attracting natural predators, companion plants can also provide shelter and hiding places for them. For example, planting low-growing plants such as thyme, oregano, or mint can offer cover for beneficial insects. Including plants that produce seeds or berries, such as sunflowers or blueberries, can also provide food for birds, which are natural predators of moles.
By creating a diverse and balanced ecosystem in your garden, you can reduce the likelihood of mole infestations while supporting natural predators that promote a healthy garden. To learn more about other ways to prevent mole damage, check out our article on Preventing Mole Damage: Tips and Tricks.
The Best Companion Plants for Mole Control
Companion planting is an effective and natural way to keep moles and other pests at bay. By planting certain vegetation around the garden, you can create a hostile environment for moles and even improve the health and yield of other plants. Here are some of the best companion plants for mole control that you should consider adding to your garden. With the right combination of plants and gardening tips, you can prevent moles from destroying your plants and enjoy a beautiful, bountiful garden all season long.
1. Alliums
Alliums are a diverse family of plants that are known for their pungent and savory flavors. But in addition to their culinary uses, they also have anti-mole properties that make them great companion plants for mole control. Alliums are a natural deterrent for moles due to their strong scent, which is derived from sulfur compounds they produce. These compounds are released into the soil, creating an unpleasant environment for moles and driving them away.
Some common Alliums that can be planted as companion plants and have anti-mole properties include:
- Garlic: Garlic is a popular Allium used in companion planting for mole prevention due to its strong scent. It can be planted near plants that are susceptible to mole damage, such as tulips and potatoes. Garlic is also a great plant to intercrop with tomatoes, as it can help to deter aphids and other pests.
- Chives: Chives are another Allium that have strong anti-mole properties. They are particularly effective when planted near plants that moles are attracted to, such as carrots and beets. Chives can also be intercropped with strawberries to help deter slugs.
- Onions: Onions are a versatile Allium that can be planted throughout the garden to help deter moles. They are particularly effective when planted near plants that are susceptible to mole damage, such as broccoli and cabbage.
To get the most out of companion planting with Alliums, it is best to plant them in close proximity to the plants you want to protect. You can either plant them in between your existing plants, or you can plant them in a separate bed and transfer the Alliums to the garden bed as needed.
Note: While Alliums are effective in deterring moles, they may not work in all situations. If you have a severe mole infestation, you may need to use other methods in conjunction with Alliums to control the problem. For more information on mole prevention, see our articles on mole prevention and soil types and sonic repellent mole prevention. Understanding mole behavior and infestations can also be helpful in developing a comprehensive mole control plan.
2. Marigolds
Marigolds are colorful annuals that add a bright pop of gold, orange, or yellow to any garden. But did you know that marigolds are also a great companion plant for deterring moles? Here are some reasons why marigolds make for an effective mole control companion plant:
1. Root secretions: Marigolds release strong-smelling root secretions that are known to repel moles, making them less likely to dig in the vicinity of the plant.
2. Insect repellent: Marigolds contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that repels many of the insects that moles feed on, making the surrounding soil less attractive to moles.
3. Nematode control: Marigolds are also effective at controlling nematodes, which are microscopic worms that can damage roots and attract moles. By planting marigolds in areas with nematode infestations, you can help reduce the mole population.
If you want to use marigolds as a mole control companion plant, remember to plant them in full sun and well-draining soil. They will also need to be spaced appropriately, roughly 6-8 inches apart. By incorporating marigolds into your garden, you can add both beauty and function to your landscape while deterring moles.
3. Castor Beans
Castor beans (Ricinus communis) are an effective companion plant for deterring moles. These plants are known for their strong odor, which repels moles and other pests. Castor beans contain a compound called ricin, which is toxic to many insects and rodents, and serves as a natural pesticide. However, it is essential to take care when handling castor beans as these plants can be harmful to humans and pets.
Here are some benefits of planting castor beans to control moles:
- Castor beans emit a strong odor that repels moles from your garden.
- Castor beans contain ricin, a potent toxin that can kill pests, deter moles and other rodents from raiding your garden.
- The dense foliage of castor beans creates an unfavourable habitat for moles, discouraging them from establishing burrows.
- Castor beans are beneficial to other plants in the garden. The leaves of the castor bean plant break down quickly, adding essential nutrients to the soil, helping improve soil fertility and enhancing the growth of other plants.
Growing Castor Beans:
Castor beans grow exceptionally fast and can reach heights of up to 10 feet tall. They prefer warm climates and well-draining soils. For successful companion planting of castor beans, plant seeds in early spring in a sunny, well-drained location. Keep the seeds moist until germination, and they should sprout up within a week. Space out the plants around 3-4 feet apart to allow enough room for growth.
Cautions:
It is important to note that castor beans contain a poisonous compound called ricin, which can be harmful if ingested. When handling castor beans, it is necessary to wear gloves, avoid smoking, and avoid rubbing your eyes or touching your face. Also, it is crucial to keep castor bean plants out of reach of children and pets. If ingested in large quantities, the seeds of the castor bean plant can be lethal.
4. Daffodils
Daffodils are yet another captivating flower that can be used for companion planting for mole prevention. These beautiful, trumpet-shaped flowers are known for their vibrant yellow color and pleasant fragrance. However, what many people don’t know is that these flowers contain a chemical called lycorine, which is toxic for moles.
The benefits of planting daffodils near your garden include:
- Mole Deterrence: Daffodil bulbs contain lycorine, which can repel moles from your garden. Planting daffodils around the perimeter of your garden, or even interspersed amongst your other plants, can help keep moles at bay.
- No Harm to Other Plants: Unlike some other toxic plants that can be harmful to other plants in your garden, daffodils are safe to grow around your other flowers and vegetables.
- Beauty and Aesthetics: Daffodils are a stunning addition to any garden with their bright yellow petals and sweet fragrance. Even better, they come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can choose the ones that best fit your garden design and color scheme.
- Low Maintenance: Daffodils are quite easy to grow and require little maintenance. Once planted, they will continue to bloom year after year, making them a worthwhile investment for your garden.
- Plant in the Fall: Daffodil bulbs need to be planted in the fall, ideally between September and November. This will give them enough time to establish roots before the winter months.
- Choose the Right Location: Daffodils prefer well-drained soil and full sun, so make sure to plant them in an area that receives plenty of direct sunlight and is not prone to flooding.
- Don’t Overwater: Daffodils do not need a lot of water, and in fact, overwatering can cause their bulbs to rot. Only water them when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Planting Depth: When planting daffodils, make sure to bury the bulb at a depth that is three times the height of the bulb. This will allow the bulb to form roots and send up shoots properly.
- Combine with Other Plants: Daffodils look beautiful when combined with other early spring blooms, such as crocuses and tulips. You could also plant them alongside some of the other mole-repelling plants on this list for maximum effect.
- Repels moles and other underground pests with its strong smell
- Attracts beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies to the garden
- Improves the flavor and growth of vegetables when planted nearby
- Helps control fungal diseases in plants
- Repels moles and gophers
- Low maintenance
- Drought-tolerant
- Deer-resistant
- Plant taller plants to the north or west side of their shorter neighbors. This prevents shading of the other plants and ensures that they all receive adequate sunlight.
- Space plants based on their mature size. Overcrowding can lead to competition for nutrients, water, and sunlight. It’s important to research the mature size of each plant and space accordingly.
- Group plants with similar water and nutrient requirements. This ensures that they will all receive equal access to resources and thrive together.
- Avoid planting certain plants too close to each other. For example, planting garlic and beans together can stunt the growth of the beans.
Tips for planting Daffodils:
When it comes to using daffodils for mole prevention, it’s essential to keep in mind that they are not a foolproof solution. However, when used in combination with other methods like proper soil management and companion planting, they can be an effective deterrent for moles in your garden.
5. Fritillarias
One of the best companion plants for mole control is Fritillarias, a group of bulb plants that produce bell-shaped flowers in shades of purple, white, and yellow. These flowers not only add beauty to your garden, but they also repel moles with their strong scent.
Fritillarias are also known to attract beneficial insects such as hoverflies and ladybugs, which in turn prey on small insects that moles feed on. They also enhance the soil structure, allowing better water and air circulation for other plants to grow.
Here is an overview of the benefits and characteristics of Fritillarias:
| Benefits | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Repels moles | Bell-shaped flowers in shades of purple, white, and yellow |
| Attracts beneficial insects | Grow up to 2ft tall |
| Enhances soil structure | Prefer well-drained soil |
When planting Fritillarias, it’s important to choose a well-drained spot as they don’t thrive in waterlogged soil. They prefer full sun to partial shade and grow up to 2ft tall. Plant them in clusters throughout the garden, surrounding vulnerable plants with their strong scent.
Remember to rotate companion plants regularly to avoid depleting the soil of essential nutrients. With proper placement, spacing, and maintenance, Fritillarias can be a reliable companion for mole control in your garden.
6. Garlic
Garlic is not only a popular kitchen ingredient, it is also a great companion plant for mole prevention. Its pungent smell makes it a repellent for moles, who tend to avoid areas that have a strong odor.
Benefits: Garlic not only deters moles, but it also has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help protect plants from diseases. Additionally, it promotes the growth of certain beneficial insects that feed on harmful pests.
How to plant: Garlic bulbs can be planted in the fall or early winter, depending on your climate. Choose an area with well-drained soil and adequate sunlight. The bulbs should be planted about 4 inches deep and 6 inches apart.
Companion plants: Garlic can be planted alongside other plants that are susceptible to moles, such as potatoes, carrots, and beets. It also pairs well with herbs like thyme and sage.
| Companion Plants | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | Garlic deters moles from damaging the potatoes while promoting their growth. |
| Carrots | Garlic repels moles, and planting it near carrots can also improve the health and flavor of the carrots. |
| Beets | Garlic can protect beets from pests and promote their growth. |
| Thyme and sage | These herbs complement the strong flavor of garlic and also have natural pest-repelling properties. |
Harvesting: Garlic is typically ready to harvest in the summer when the leaves start to turn brown. When the bulbs are ready, carefully dig them up and allow them to dry in a shady area for a few days before storing them in a cool, dry place.
Precautions: While garlic is generally safe for most plants and animals, it can be toxic to dogs and cats in large quantities. Make sure to keep pets away from garlic plants and dispose of any leftover garlic in a secure location.
7. Chives
Chives are a popular herb that is often used in cooking, but did you know that they can also be used as a companion plant for mole prevention? Chives are not only effective in deterring moles but also have various benefits for other plants in the garden.
Benefits:
When using chives as a companion plant, it is essential to plant them strategically throughout the garden. Plant them in small clusters or scatter them around the perimeter of the garden to create a barrier that moles will avoid.
Planting Tips:
| Plant Type: | Perennial herb |
|---|---|
| Sun Exposure: | Partial to full sun |
| Soil Conditions: | Well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter |
| Planting Time: | Spring or fall |
| Spacing: | Plant 4-6 inches apart |
Chives should be spaced out according to their growing needs and planted in an area with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can be planted in the spring or fall, but make sure to keep the soil moist during hot summer months.
It is also important to note that chives can be invasive if not properly monitored, so be sure to regularly cut back the leaves to prevent them from taking over other plants in the garden.
Chives are a great companion plant for mole prevention and have additional benefits for the garden as well. By following these planting tips and regularly monitoring their growth, you can successfully use chives as a natural pest deterrent in your garden.
8. Mole Plant
The mole plant, also known as Euphorbia lathyris or gopher spurge, is a popular companion plant for mole control due to its natural mole-repelling properties. This plant produces a milky sap that contains diterpene esters, which effectively repel moles and other burrowing pests.
Benefits of the Mole Plant:
Planting mole plants around the perimeter of your garden or in areas where moles are known to burrow can effectively deter them from entering. However, it’s important to note that the mole plant can be toxic if ingested, so it should be planted away from areas where pets or children may come into contact with it.
Mole plants prefer well-drained soil and a sunny location. They can grow up to 4 feet tall and have unique chartreuse flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant is classified as an annual, but it readily self-seeds, so you may find new plants popping up in your garden each year.
If you decide to plant mole plants in your garden, be sure to wear gloves when handling them as the sap can cause skin irritation. The mole plant is a great addition to any garden looking to naturally control mole infestations.
9. Calendula
Calendula, also known as Pot Marigold, is another companion plant that is effective for mole prevention. This beautiful and brightly-colored flower is not only visually appealing but is also beneficial in repelling moles.
Benefits:
Calendula acts as a natural insect repellent, which makes it effective in keeping away the insects that moles feed on. Additionally, the strong smell of calendula is known to repel moles, keeping them away from your garden.
| Companion Plants | Benefits | Incompatible Plants |
|---|---|---|
| Companion Plants | Benefits | Incompatible Plants |
| Tomatoes | Improves the flavor of tomatoes and repels aphids, whiteflies and caterpillars. | – |
| Asparagus | Repels pests such as nematodes that attack the root system, and attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings. | – |
| Beans | Enriches the soil by fixing nitrogen, and repels pests like aphids and beetles. | Onions and garlic |
| Marigolds | Repels moles, among other pests, and attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps. | – |
| Carrots | Attracts beneficial insects such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps, and deters pests like aphids and root maggots. | Dill |
Planting Tips:
Calendula is a hardy plant that is tolerant of different soil types and growing conditions. They prefer full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. To get the best results for mole prevention, plant calendula around the border of your garden or in areas that moles have been observed. Keep in mind that calendula is an annual plant, so you will need to replant it every year.
Care and Maintenance:
Calendula requires minimal care and attention. Water regularly, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage new growth and to prevent the plant from going to seed too quickly. If you notice any signs of disease or insect damage, remove the affected parts immediately to prevent it from spreading to other plants.
Incompatible Plants:
Calendula is compatible with most plants, but it is best to avoid planting them with dill, as they can attract the same pests. Additionally, avoid planting calendula with onions and garlic, as they may compete for nutrients and hinder each other’s growth.
Tips for Successful Companion Planting
When it comes to companion planting for mole control, success relies on more than just choosing the right plants. Proper implementation and ongoing maintenance are equally important. With these tips for successful companion planting, you can ensure that your efforts to deter moles from your garden are effective and long-lasting. From understanding plant needs to regular monitoring, these tips will help you create a companion planting strategy that works for you.
1. Understand Plant Needs and Compatibilities
One of the most important things to remember when practicing companion planting for mole prevention is to understand the needs and compatibilities of different plants. This involves being aware of their growth habits, nutrient requirements, and potential interactions with other plants. It’s important to choose plants that will work well together and promote each other’s health and growth.
To help you get started, we’ve put together a table with some common companion plants and their associated benefits:
| Companion Plant | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Alliums (onions, garlic, chives) | Repel moles and other pests; stimulate growth of neighboring plants |
| Marigolds | Deter pests such as moles and rabbits; attract beneficial insects |
| Castor Beans | Repel moles, voles, and other rodents |
| Daffodils | Repel moles and other pests |
| Fritillarias | Repel moles and other pests; attract beneficial insects |
| Garlic | Repels moles and other pests; stimulates growth of neighboring plants |
| Chives | Repel moles and other pests; stimulate growth of neighboring plants |
| Mole Plant (Euphorbia lathyris) | Repels moles and other pests; caution: plant is toxic if ingested |
| Calendula | Attracts beneficial insects; deodorizes and cleanses the soil |
By understanding the specific benefits of each companion plant, you can create a planting plan that takes advantage of their individual strengths and promotes healthy growth in your garden. Don’t forget to also consider the nutrient requirements and sunlight preferences of each plant when planning your garden layout. With a little bit of planning and attention to detail, companion planting can be an effective and natural way to prevent moles and promote a thriving garden.
2. Proper Placement and Spacing
Proper placement and spacing of companion plants is crucial for successful mole control. When planting, it is important to take into consideration both the needs of the plants as well as their effects on each other. Here are some tips for proper placement and spacing:
By following these placement and spacing tips, you can create a harmonious and thriving garden that also helps deter moles.
3. Regular Maintenance and Monitoring
To ensure the success of companion planting for mole prevention, regular maintenance and monitoring is essential. Gardening is a continuous process that requires attentive care, and companion planting is no exception. Here are some tasks that should be regularly performed and monitored:
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Weeding | Removing weeds around companion plants will prevent competition for nutrients and sunlight. Weeds can also harbor pests and diseases. Pulling them out manually or using a hoe is recommended over chemical herbicides. |
| Watering | Companion plants have different water needs, and it is important to regularly monitor soil moisture. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases, whereas underwatering can cause stress and stunted growth. |
| Fertilizing | Companion plants have varying nutrient requirements, and fertilization should be done accordingly. Over-fertilizing can cause nutrient burn and harm the plants. |
| Pest Control | While companion plants can deter some pests, they may attract others. Regular monitoring for pest presence, like aphids or caterpillars, and immediate control measures will prevent infestations from going out of control. |
| Disease Control | Like pests, companion plants have varying disease susceptibilities. Regular monitoring for disease symptoms like wilting, yellowing, or spotting, and timely control measures will prevent the spread of diseases to other plants. |
| Pruning and Deadheading | Some companion plants, like marigolds, require deadheading to encourage new blooms, while others may need pruning to maintain a compact shape. Regular pruning and deadheading will also help prevent the plants from becoming overcrowded and competing for resources. |
By performing these tasks and monitoring the health of the companion plants regularly, gardeners can ensure that their companion planting efforts will be successful in mole control.
4. Rotate Companion Plants Regularly
Rotate Companion Plants Regularly
One of the most important tips for successful companion planting for mole control is to rotate companion plants regularly. Rotating your companion plants helps to prevent soil-borne diseases and pests and ensures that the soil remains fertile for healthy plant growth.
Rotating your companion plants involves swapping the planting locations of different plant families each growing season. For instance, if you plant alliums in one bed this season, plant them in a different bed the following season. This ensures that the soil is not depleted of nutrients and that soil-borne diseases and pests do not build up in the soil. Additionally, rotating your companion plants helps to confuse moles and other pests that rely on scent to locate their favorite plants.
To make rotating your companion plants easier, it is helpful to keep track of where you have planted each plant family each year. You can create a simple table or chart to keep track of what was planted where and when.
| Year | Bed 1 | Bed 2 | Bed 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Alliums | Marigolds | Daffodils |
| Year 2 | Marigolds | Daffodils | Alliums |
| Year 3 | Daffodils | Alliums | Marigolds |
Note: In the table above, the three beds are labeled as “Bed 1,” “Bed 2,” and “Bed 3.” Each year, the plant families are rotated to a different bed, so that no plant family is planted in the same location two years in a row.
By rotating your companion plants regularly, you can help prevent pest infestations and ensure that your plants remain healthy and strong year after year.
Conclusion
In conclusion, companion planting is a natural and effective way to control moles in your garden. By choosing the right companion plants, you can deter moles from your favorite plants, enhance growth, and create a favorable habitat for natural predators. Alliums, marigolds, castor beans, daffodils, fritillarias, garlic, chives, mole plants, and calendula are all great options for companion planting to repel moles.
However, it is important to understand the different plant needs and compatibilities, properly place and space the companion plants, and rotate them regularly for the best results. Regular maintenance and monitoring of your garden can also help ensure success in controlling moles. By implementing these tips, you can enjoy a beautiful, mole-free garden without the need for harmful chemicals.
Overall, companion planting for mole control offers a safe, organic, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional methods. By utilizing the power of natural predators and companions, you can enjoy a thriving garden without the annoyance of moles damaging your plants. Give it a try and see the benefits for yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are moles and why are they considered pests?
Moles are small, burrowing mammals that live underground. They are considered pests because they can damage lawns and gardens by creating tunnels and mounds.
What is companion planting?
Companion planting is the practice of planting different types of vegetation together in a way that benefits both plants. It is often used for pest control, to increase crop yields, and to improve soil health.
How does companion planting work for mole prevention?
Companion planting for mole prevention works by planting certain plants that moles dislike, planting plants that improve the growth of other plants moles dislike, and providing habitat for natural predators of moles.
Can companion planting completely eliminate moles from my garden?
No, companion planting for mole prevention is not a foolproof method for completely eliminating moles from your garden. However, it can deter moles and reduce their impact on your plants.
Do I need to plant companion plants all around my garden?
No, you don’t need to plant companion plants all around your garden. Planting them strategically in problem areas can be enough to deter moles.
Can I plant any type of allium for mole control?
No, only certain types of alliums, like garlic and onions, have shown to be effective for mole control.
Can I use pesticides along with companion planting for mole control?
It is best to avoid using pesticides if you are using companion planting for mole control, as the pesticides can harm the natural predators of moles.
What type of soil do companion plants need?
It depends on the specific plant, but most companion plants prefer well-draining soil with good organic matter content.
Do I need to water companion plants differently than other plants in my garden?
Companion plants may have different watering needs than other plants in your garden, so it’s important to research the watering needs of each plant and adjust accordingly.
Can I still have a beautiful garden if I use companion planting for mole prevention?
Absolutely! Many companion plants for mole prevention, like marigolds and daffodils, are also beautiful and can add visual interest to your garden.
