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Having a lush green lawn in Portland, OR is a source of pride for many homeowners. However, finding unsightly mounds of dirt scattered across your yard can be frustrating. Moles are small mammals that burrow underground, creating tunnels and pushing up the soil to the surface. While moles are beneficial for aerating the soil and eating insects, they can also cause damage to your lawn and garden. If you’re dealing with a mole problem in your yard, this informative guide will help you safely and effectively get rid of them.
Identifying the Problem
The first step in getting rid of moles is to identify the problem. Look for signs of mole activity such as raised ridges in your lawn, mounds of soil, and tunnels running just below the surface. Moles are active year-round, but they are most active in the spring and fall when the soil is easier to dig. Once you’ve confirmed that you have a mole infestation, it’s time to take action.
Natural Remedies
There are several natural remedies that you can try to deter moles from your yard. One common method is to plant daffodils, marigolds, or castor beans around your lawn. Moles are repelled by the smell of these plants and will avoid areas where they are planted. Another natural remedy is to sprinkle castor oil granules or used cat litter around the entrance to mole tunnels. The strong smell will discourage moles from entering the area.
Traps
Trapping is another effective method for getting rid of moles in your yard. There are two main types of mole traps: harpoon traps and scissor traps. Harpoon traps are placed in the mole’s tunnel, and when triggered, a sharp spike impales the mole. Scissor traps work by closing down on the mole as it passes through the tunnel. Both types of traps are effective but require patience and skill to set correctly. If you’re not comfortable setting traps yourself, it’s best to hire a professional mole exterminator in Portland, OR.
Repellents
There are also repellents available that can deter moles from your yard. One common repellent is made from a mixture of castor oil, dish soap, and water. Simply spray the repellent on the affected areas of your lawn to create a barrier that moles will avoid. There are also ultrasonic repellent devices that emit vibrations and sounds that are unpleasant to moles. These devices should be placed near the mole tunnels for maximum effectiveness.
Professional Extermination
If you’ve tried natural remedies, traps, and repellents without success, it may be time to call in the professionals. A professional mole exterminator in Portland, OR will have the knowledge and experience to safely and effectively remove moles from your yard. They will use specialized equipment and techniques to locate and eliminate moles without harming other wildlife or your lawn. Professional extermination is the most efficient way to get rid of moles and prevent them from returning.
Prevention
Once you’ve successfully gotten rid of moles in your yard, it’s important to take steps to prevent them from returning. Keep your lawn well-watered and free of grubs and insects, which are the main food source for moles. Regularly mow your lawn to keep the grass short, as moles prefer to tunnel in tall grass. Consider installing a barrier around your yard made of galvanized hardware cloth to prevent moles from burrowing underground. By taking these preventative measures, you can enjoy a mole-free lawn for years to come.
In conclusion, dealing with moles in your Portland, OR yard can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can safely and effectively get rid of them. By identifying the problem, trying natural remedies, using traps and repellents, and seeking professional extermination if needed, you can rid your lawn of moles and prevent them from returning. Remember to take preventative measures to keep moles at bay and enjoy a beautiful, mole-free lawn.
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