Ground moles can be a nuisance for many homeowners, as these little pests can cause significant damage to your lawn and garden. While there are various methods for getting rid of ground moles, one unusual solution that has gained popularity in recent years is using marshmallows.
In this article, we will explore how this technique works and provide you with a step-by-step guide for using marshmallows to remove ground moles from your property.
What Are Ground Moles
Ground moles are small, burrowing mammals that are commonly found in North America, Europe, and Asia. They have cylindrical bodies, velvety fur, and small eyes and ears.
Ground moles are adapted for a burrowing lifestyle, with short but powerful limbs that allow them to efficiently dig through soil and create complex tunnel systems. They are insectivores, feeding primarily on earthworms, grubs, and other soil-dwelling invertebrates.
While ground moles can be beneficial for soil aeration and pest control, they can also be destructive to lawns and gardens due to their burrowing activity.
Problems Brought by Ground Moles
Ground moles can create significant problems when left uncontrolled. These small creatures can wreak havoc on lawns, gardens, and landscaping features.
Here are the three main problems caused by ground moles when not dealt with properly.
Damage to Lawns and Gardens
Ground moles are notorious for digging multiple tunnels underground, which can cause a lot of damage to lawns and gardens.
The dirt mounds that are created can be unsightly, and when the animals create their tunnel networks, they can disrupt root systems and kill plants, among other issues. In turn, this can lead to costly repairs and time-consuming maintenance.
Pest Attraction
Since ground moles burrow underground, they create tunnels that are often used by other burrowing pests like ants and voles. These can quickly become serious pest problems and are much harder to control than moles.
The attraction of these pests can lead to further damage and headaches for homeowners and landscapers.
Safety Threats
Ground mole tunnels can pose a safety risk to pets and people. When tunnels get deep, they can weaken the ground, leading to potential collapse hazards. These collapsed tunnels can also create holes in the soil, making it easy to trip over and causing further injuries.
If homeowners or landscapers are not careful, they can also damage machinery when digging through the tunnels, leading to costly repairs.
Getting Rid of Ground Moles with Marshmallows
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to effectively eliminate ground moles using this unique method.
Step 1: Find the Mole Tunnel
To effectively use marshmallows, you need to locate the tunnel where the mole is living. These tunnels are usually found near mounds of dirt or raised ridges in your lawn.
Step 2: Cut a Few Marshmallows in Half
You only need a few marshmallows for each mole tunnel, so cut a few of them in half to make them easier to place.
Step 3: Insert the Marshmallows Into the Mole Tunnel
Place the halved marshmallows into the tunnel, making sure they are deep enough to not be seen by any birds or other wildlife.
Step 4: Wait for the Mole to Eat the Marshmallow
Moles are attracted to the sweetness of marshmallows, and will likely consume them quickly. Once they’ve eaten the marshmallow, they’ll become dehydrated and start to leave the tunnel in search of water.
Step 5: Flood the tunnel
Once the mole has left the tunnel, quickly flood it with water.
Using marshmallows to get rid of ground moles is an effective and sweet solution to this frustrating problem. Give it a try and enjoy a mole-free life!
Methods to Get Rid of Ground Moles Naturally
Moles are fascinating creatures that play a crucial role in our ecosystem. However, when they invade our gardens and lawns, they can cause significant damage to the plants and grass.
While some people resort to using chemicals to eliminate moles, there are natural and humane methods that you can try.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is an effective natural repellent for moles. Pouring a mixture of castor oil and water into the mole holes will help drive them away from your garden.
Plants
Certain plants like daffodils, marigolds, and alliums have strong scents that moles find unappealing. Planting these flowers in and around your garden can help keep moles away.
Vibrations
Moles are sensitive to vibrations and noise. Installing a vibrating device or creating noise near their burrows can drive them away.
Human Hair
Sprinkling human hair around the molehills can also repel them. Moles can’t stand the smell of humans, and the hair will deter them from coming back.
Predator Urine
Using predator urine like that of a coyote or fox around the perimeter of the lawn can also repel moles. The scent of the urine will signal to moles that a predator is nearby, and they will flee.
Trying these natural methods can help you to keep your garden and lawn free from the damage caused by moles.
Ground Moles Removal Services
While there are DIY methods for removing ground moles, sometimes it may be necessary to hire a professional removal service.
Here are some reasons to consider hiring a ground mole removal service:
Extensive Damage
If the damage caused by ground moles is extensive and beyond your ability to manage, hiring a professional service may be necessary to remedy the situation.
Multiple Moles
If you have a large number of ground moles in your yard, it can be challenging to remove them all on your own. Professional removal services have the tools, skills, and experience necessary to handle larger infestations.
Time Constraints
If you don’t have the time or energy to dedicate to removing ground moles, a professional service can handle the job for you without disrupting your schedule.
Preventative Measures
Ground mole removal services not only remove existing moles, but they can also implement preventative measures to help keep them from returning in the future.
In general, it is best to hire a ground mole removal service when you have tried DIY methods and they have not been effective. Additionally, if you are unsure about handling the situation on your own, it is always safer to consult with a professional.
3 Best Products to Use to Get Rid of Ground Moles
There are many products available in the market that can help get rid of ground moles, but finding the best one can be overwhelming. In this article, we will discuss the three best products to use to get rid of ground moles and help you choose the right one for your needs.
Tips for Preventing Ground Moles from Coming Back
While it may be tempting to use traps or poison to eliminate ground moles, prevention is often the best approach. Here are some tips for preventing ground moles from coming back:
- Remove their food source by getting rid of grubs and other insects in your lawn.
- Plant bulbs and other plants that moles don’t like, such as daffodils, alliums, and marigolds.
- Keep your lawn well-watered, as moles prefer dry soil.
- Create a barrier by digging a trench about two feet deep and lining it with wire mesh or plastic.
- Use vibrating stakes or windmills to create noise and vibrations that scare moles away.
- Mow your lawn frequently to keep the grass short and discourage moles from burrowing.