Spread the love

What are Moles and How do They Damage Lawns?

Moles are small, burrowing mammals that belong to the Talpidae family. They are known for their cylindrical bodies, velvety fur, and powerful forelimbs equipped with large claws, which they use for digging intricate tunnel systems underground.

Damage to Lawns:

Moles can cause significant damage to lawns and gardens due to their burrowing activities. Here are some ways in which they can harm your lawn:

Tunneling: Moles create a network of tunnels just below the surface of the soil. These tunnels can be shallow or deep, depending on the species of mole and the availability of food sources. As they dig, moles push up soil, creating raised ridges or mounds on the surface of the lawn.

Root Damage: While tunneling, moles often encounter plant roots. They may accidentally sever or damage these roots, leading to the decline or death of plants in your lawn or garden.

Disruption of Soil Structure: The constant digging and tunneling activities of moles can disrupt the soil structure, making it loose and prone to erosion. This can result in the formation of unsightly bare patches on your lawn.

Unwanted Guests: Moles attract other pests, such as voles and shrews, which may also cause damage to your lawn or garden. These pests may use the mole tunnels as pathways, further exacerbating the issue.

See also How much water should I give to different types of plants in the fall?

Preventing and Managing Mole Damage:

While it may be challenging to completely eliminate moles from your lawn, there are several strategies you can employ to prevent and manage their damage:

• Mole Repellents: There are various mole repellents available in the market, including castor oil-based products, ultrasonic devices, and granular repellents. These can be applied to the lawn to deter moles from tunneling.
• Physical Barriers: Installing underground barriers made of wire mesh or hardware cloth can prevent moles from accessing specific areas of your lawn or garden.
• Trapping: Trapping is an effective method for controlling mole populations. Live traps or lethal traps can be used, but it is important to check local regulations and follow humane trapping practices.
• Proper Lawn Maintenance: Maintaining a healthy lawn can make it less attractive to moles. Regularly mowing the grass, watering adequately, and addressing any soil compaction issues can discourage moles from taking up residence.

See also What are the symptoms of nitrogen deficiency in plants?

It is important to note that moles play a beneficial role in ecosystems by aerating the soil and controlling populations of insects and grubs. Therefore, it is advisable to consider the extent of the damage and the overall impact on your lawn before implementing control measures.

Keywords: damage, tunneling, tunnels, garden, repellents, trapping, burrowing, digging, underground