Are you noticing tunnels and raised ridges throughout your garden? Are your plants showing signs of damage with roots and bulbs disturbed? It is possible that you’re dealing with moles. These small, furry creatures have a knack for digging their way through gardens, munching on everything in their path. Learning what moles eat and the problems they can cause will help you protect your garden. In this article, we will explore the feeding habits of moles in your garden as well as the methods you can use to protect your plants.
What Do Moles Eat?
As a gardener, you put a lot of effort and resources into cultivating your plants, flowers, and vegetables. Unfortunately, moles might pose a significant threat to the health and appearance of your garden. Moles are known for their burrowing and tunneling habits which can damage plant roots and even create unsightly mounds. It’s crucial to know what these creatures like to eat to better prepare for and prevent them from destroying your garden. Let’s take a closer look at what kinds of food moles prefer in their diet and how this may relate to their presence in your yard. If you want more information on the nutritional needs of moles, you can check out this guide.
Earthworms
Moles primarily feed on insects and worms, and earthworms are a particularly favored food. According to research, an adult mole can eat up to its body weight in earthworms every day. As they tunnel through the soil searching for food, they may consume worms accidentally. However, they can also detect the movement of earthworms and dig them out of their burrows.
Earthworms are not only a valuable food source for moles but also play a critical role in lawn health. These creatures help to aerate and fertilize the soil, promoting root growth and preventing soil compaction. Without earthworms, your yard may suffer from poor drainage, poor root development, and reduced nutrient availability.
Thus, while eliminating moles from your garden is a reasonable goal, it is best done using methods that do not harm earthworm populations. It is essential to protect these beneficial organisms while controlling mole populations. In the following sections, we outline several effective strategies for mole control without compromising earthworm populations.
| Pros of Earthworms | Cons of Earthworms |
|---|---|
| Help to aerate and fertilize soil | Can be accidentally consumed by moles |
| Improve drainage and soil structure | May attract moles and other predators |
| Provide food for various animals | May cause worm casts on the lawn |
In short, earthworms are a key component of healthy soil, and their importance should not be overlooked when controlling moles. Consider using mole control methods that protect earthworm populations and maintain the integrity of your lawn ecosystem.
Grubs and Insects
Grubs and insects are also important components of moles’ diet. Moles feed on a variety of insects, such as beetles, ants, and crickets. However, their primary target is grubs, which are the larvae of beetles like Japanese beetles, June beetles and others. Grubs are high in protein and fat, which makes them an important food source for moles. They not only feed on grubs but also hunt for other insect larvae that live in the soil.
The presence of moles in your garden might indicate that there is an abundance of grubs and other insects in your soil. While grubs are not always detrimental to your garden, an excessively large population can be harmful. Some grubs, like Japanese beetle grubs, can damage the roots of grass and other plants, thereby damaging lawn health.
If you want to control the population of moles in your garden, you need to control the number of grubs, which serve as their primary food source. Proper lawn maintenance and pest control can help reduce the population of these insects. However, you need to be careful when using insecticides to control grub population as these can also harm beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
Another way to reduce the number of grubs in your garden is by modifying your garden layout. For instance, you might consider planting less grass, which is a favorite food of Japanese beetle grubs. Instead, opt for other vegetation like groundcovers, shrubs, and perennials. This way, the beetles will not have a food source in your garden, thus reducing the number of grubs they lay. Additionally, you can make your garden less hospitable to moles by modifying your garden layout.
Other Foods
Moles primarily feed on earthworms and grubs, but they also consume other foods, including insects, spiders, and small rodents. They have a voracious appetite and can consume up to 80% of their body weight in a day!
However, it’s important to note that while moles do eat insects, they are not the sole reason for moles visiting your garden. Moles also feed on earthworms, so a healthy lawn with a thriving earthworm population can also attract moles. Additionally, moles may burrow through your garden in search of shelter or as a means of traveling to other areas.
| Food | Description |
|---|---|
| Insects | Moles will eat a variety of insects such as beetles, ants, and centipedes. |
| Spiders | While not typically a primary food source, moles will eat spiders when they are available. |
| Small rodents | Moles are known to occasionally feed on shrews and other small rodents, but this is not a common behavior. |
Understanding the various foods moles eat is essential when trying to protect your plants and garden from their destructive behaviors. By removing their food sources, you can discourage moles from inhabiting your garden or lawn.
If you want to learn more about how moles can affect your lawn’s health, read our article on mole’s diet and its effect on lawn health. Alternatively, check out our article on the reasons why moles may visit your yard other than grubs.
What Problems Can Moles Cause in Your Garden?
Moles may seem harmless, but they can actually cause some serious damage to your garden. They are known for digging tunnels in your yard, which can uproot and damage your plants. Their burrowing can make it easier for other pests to access your garden and cause further damage.
Moles feed on earthworms and other insects that are beneficial to the soil. Their appetite for these creatures can harm the soil structure and nutrient balance in your garden, affecting the health of your plants. They can also indirectly cause damage by attracting predators such as snakes and owls, which can prey on small animals in your garden.
In addition to physical damage, moles can also be a nuisance due to their digging and burrowing. The mounds of dirt that they create can be unsightly and make it difficult to maintain a neat and organized garden. This can be particularly problematic if you have a vegetable garden, as it can make it harder to access your plants and harvest your crops.
While moles may seem innocuous, they can actually cause a range of problems in your garden. It’s important to take steps to protect your plants and soil from these creatures in order to maintain a healthy and thriving garden.
How to Protect Your Garden from Moles?
Protecting your garden from moles can seem like a daunting task, but with the right measures, it can be done. These underground creatures can cause a significant amount of damage to your plants and lawn, so it’s important to take action to keep them at bay. From effective mole repellents to traps and barriers, there are various methods that you can use to protect your garden. In this section, we will delve into these methods and explore how to keep your garden safe from mole damage.
Mole Repellents
When it comes to protecting your garden from moles, one option is to use mole repellents. These products work by emitting strong scents and vibrations that moles find unpleasant. There are several types of mole repellents available in the market, each with its unique features and benefits.
One popular type of mole repellent is made from castor oil. Castor oil is an organic compound that repels moles by creating an unpleasant odor and taste. To use castor oil as a repellent, you can mix it with water and spray it in your garden. Another type of mole repellent is made from predator urine, such as fox or coyote urine. These products simulate the presence of predators in your garden, scaring moles away.
Additionally, ultrasonic mole repellents emit high-frequency sounds that are believed to drive moles away. These devices are easy to install and are powered by solar panels or batteries. However, effectiveness of ultrasonic repellents may vary, as some moles may become accustomed to the sound.
Here is a table of some popular mole repellents:
| Repellent Type | Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Castor Oil | Natural, organic, and safe for plants and animals. | Effective for repelling moles, long-lasting effects. | It may take several applications to achieve desired results. |
| Predator urine | Simulates the presence of predators, making moles wary. | Easy to use, long-lasting effects. | May not work as well for all types of moles, may have an unpleasant smell. |
| Ultrasonic Repellers | Sends high frequency sounds. | Safe for plants and animals, low maintenance. | Effectiveness may vary, moles may become accustomed to the sound. |
When using mole repellents, it is essential to follow the instructions carefully and apply them correctly. Keep in mind that repellents often need to be reapplied every few weeks to maintain their effectiveness. Mole repellents can be a useful tool in protecting your garden from these burrowing pests.
Barriers
Barriers are another effective way to protect your garden from moles. By creating physical obstacles that prevent moles from entering specific areas of your garden, you can safeguard your plants from any potential damage. There are a few different types of barriers that you can use to keep moles out of your garden, each with its pros and cons.
One option for a barrier is using wire mesh. This type of barrier is made from thick and sturdy wire mesh that is placed underground around the perimeter of your garden. The wire mesh creates an impenetrable barrier that moles cannot pass through while still allowing rainwater and essential nutrients to reach your plants. However, installing wire mesh can be time-consuming and labor-intensive.
Another type of barrier is a vegetative barrier. This method involves surrounding your garden with plants or shrubs that moles do not like. For instance, some plants like alliums, marigolds, and daffodils have strong smells that repel moles. This type of barrier can also add aesthetic value to your garden, but the effectiveness can depend on various factors like plant location, wind conditions, and soil type.
Lastly, raised garden beds can be an effective barrier against moles, particularly if you have a persistent mole problem in your area. Raised garden beds are elevated off the ground, so moles cannot tunnel below them to access your plants. Additionally, raised garden beds can help address other garden issues like poor soil quality, drainage problems, and pests.
Here’s a table summarizing the pros and cons of each type of barrier:
| Type of Barrier | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Wire Mesh | Impenetrable barrier | Time-consuming to install |
| Vegetative | Aesthetically pleasing Repels moles with strong smells |
Effectiveness depends on various factors |
| Raised Garden Beds | Effective against persistent mole problems Addresses other garden issues |
Requires elevated gardening |
Choosing the right barrier for your garden will depend on your specific situation, including your budget, the severity of your mole problem, and your gardening goals. However, incorporating one or more of these barrier methods can help safeguard your garden and prevent moles from damaging your precious plants.
Trapping and Removal
Trapping and removal is another method for getting rid of moles in your garden. This method requires a bit more effort and know-how, but it can be really effective if done correctly.
Trapping:
Trapping moles involves placing mole traps throughout your yard, preferably in areas where you’ve noticed mole activity. There are two main types of mole traps: scissor traps and harpoon traps. Scissor traps work by crushing the mole, while harpoon traps work by impaling it. Both types of traps should be set perpendicular to the mole tunnel and covered with soil or turf to hide the trap.
Removal:
Once you’ve caught a mole in your trap, you’ll need to remove it from your garden. It’s important to do this carefully to avoid injuring the mole or releasing it back into your yard. Here are the steps for safe removal:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Check the trap frequently. Moles can quickly die from exposure, so check your traps often and remove any caught moles as soon as possible. |
| Step 2 | Wear gloves. Moles have a strong sense of smell, so it’s important to wear gloves when handling them to avoid leaving human scent in the area. |
| Step 3 | Place the mole in a sealed container. A plastic bag or bucket with a lid will work. Make sure the container has air holes to allow the mole to breathe. |
| Step 4 | Release the mole far away from your garden. Find a wooded area or field at least 5 miles away from your yard and release the mole there. This will give it the best chance of survival. |
Pros and cons of trapping and removal:
Trapping and removal is an effective method for getting rid of moles, but it does require more effort than other methods. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros:
- You have more control over the removal process.
- It’s a more humane method than poisoning or flooding.
- It reduces the risk of harm to other animals or pets in your yard.
Cons:
- It requires more effort and know-how than other methods.
- You need to check traps frequently and remove caught moles as soon as possible.
- It can be time-consuming to release moles far away from your garden.
Trapping and removal is a good option if you’re willing to put in the effort and want a humane and effective way to get rid of moles in your garden.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is clear that moles can be a major problem for gardens and outdoor spaces. They primarily feed on earthworms, grubs, and other insects, which can affect the soil quality and plant growth. Additionally, their digging can create unsightly molehills and damage plant roots.
Fortunately, there are several methods for protecting your garden from moles. Mole repellents, such as castor oil or vibrating stakes, can be effective in deterring moles from your garden. Barriers, such as wire mesh or underground fencing, can also prevent moles from entering your garden in the first place. Lastly, trapping and removal can be a humane option for dealing with a mole problem, although it requires some skill and expertise.
It is important to remember that moles are a natural part of the ecosystem and can actually be beneficial in some cases. However, if they are causing damage to your garden or outdoor space, it may be necessary to take action to protect your plants. By implementing some of the methods mentioned in this article, you can successfully protect your garden from moles and maintain a healthy and thriving outdoor environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some signs that moles are present in my garden?
You may notice raised ridges or mounds of soil in your garden, as well as tunnels just beneath the surface of the soil.
What damage can moles cause to my plants?
Moles typically do not eat plants, but their tunnels can damage the roots and cause them to dry out, killing the plants.
Can moles carry diseases?
While moles themselves are not known to carry diseases, they may attract other pests that can, such as fleas and ticks.
What is the difference between a mole and a vole?
A mole is a burrowing mammal that feeds on insects and worms, while a vole is a small rodent that eats plant roots and stems.
What are some natural methods to repel moles?
Planting garlic, fritillaries, and daffodils may help repel moles due to their strong scents.
Are there any plants that moles won’t dig up?
While moles are known to tunnel through most types of soil, they may be less likely to dig up plants with strong roots, such as daffodils and garlic.
Can I use poison to get rid of moles?
It is not recommended to use poison to get rid of moles, as it can harm other wildlife and pets in the area.
What is the most effective way to catch moles?
Trapping and removal is the most effective way to catch moles, using humane traps specifically designed for this purpose.
Is it legal to trap and remove moles from my garden?
It is legal to trap and remove moles from your garden, but you should check with local wildlife agencies for any specific regulations in your area.
How can I prevent moles from returning to my garden?
Regularly mowing and watering your lawn, as well as removing sources of food such as grubs, can help prevent moles from returning to your garden.
