Hey there, fellow homeowners! If you're dealing with pesky moles in your residential landscape, you're not alone. These tunneling critters can wreak havoc on your beautiful lawn. One effective way to keep them at bay is to understand what moles eat and which plantings to avoid in your yard. Let's dive in!
What Do Moles Eat?
Moles are primarily insectivores, which means their diet primarily consists of insects and other small invertebrates. Though moles are known to eat some plant matter, their favorite delicacies include:
Earthworms: Moles absolutely love earthworms. They're a staple in their diet and a big reason why moles are often found in well-irrigated lawns with healthy soil.
Grubs: Moles have a particular fondness for grubs, the larvae of certain beetles. These can cause significant damage to your lawn, so it's essential to control their populations.
Insects: Moles will also munch on various insects like ants, beetles, and other creepy-crawlies that live in the soil.
Now that we know what moles like to eat, let's talk about how to reduce their food sources by choosing the right plantings for your landscape.
Consider This...
Bulbs & Tuberous Growths: Bulbs and other tuberous growths are excellent sources of sugars and starches for your lawn's ecology and will attract insects. Avoid excessive bulb populations and limit plantings of sweet potato vines and other plants that produce subterranean tubers.
Choose Resistant Plants: Some plants are less appealing to moles. Consider incorporating mole-resistant species like daffodils, marigolds, and alliums into your landscape design. These plants have scents and chemicals that moles find unappetizing.
Reduce Grub Populations: As we mentioned earlier, moles love grubs. To deter moles, take steps to control grub populations in your lawn. You can use nematodes or specific grub control products available at your local garden center. For those that prefer to hire out applications, a Lawn Pest Program may be best for you!
Avoid Excessive Mulch: While mulch can be beneficial for your plants, too much mulch can create a haven for insects that moles love. Use mulch in moderation.
Remember, it's essential to take a holistic approach to mole control. Combining these landscaping strategies with mole traps or professional assistance can help keep your lawn mole-free.
In conclusion, moles can be a nuisance in your residential landscape, but by understanding their diet and making smart landscaping choices, you can reduce their food sources and keep your lawn looking its best.
Stay tuned for more lawn care tips from Newell Services LLC, your local experts in lawn health. If you need assistance with mole control or any other lawn care services, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help!
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