What Do Gophers Hate the Most?

Burrowing Pests
1

Has anyone noticed that gophers seem really sensitive to noise? I mean, I just start mowing my lawn and I see them fleeing!

2

You’re right, NoisyNancy123. Gophers have very sensitive hearing. They can detect even slight vibrations in the ground. Loud noises can feel disruptive to their peace.

3

Actually, studies have shown that they dislike loud disturbances because it interferes with their ability to listen for predators and other gophers. It’s a survival thing!

4

Gopher is similar as mole, I find this article is useful. Hope it is help.

5

Gophers really dislike the smell of castor oil, garlic, and peppermint. Those scents irritate them and often prompt them to move elsewhere

6

Yep! I acid-tested this with spray applications around my beds, castor oil repellent knocked them off fast. But it wears out after rain, so reapplication is crucial

7

I planted mint and rosemary around my garden edges, and noticed gopher activity dropped. They don’t like the strong smells

8

@HerbHoarder That sounds like a smart, low-impact approach. I’ve also seen references to daffodils and lavender being effective, they repel and look pretty too

9

Physical defenses work too, burying hardware cloth or gopher mesh at least 18–24 inches deep around raised beds really keeps them out

10

Wind chimes or underground sonic stakes that vibrate the soil can make gophers super uncomfortable. It won’t kill them, but it can encourage them to leave

11

Not a fan of castor bean plants, they repel gophers but are toxic to pets. If you try that, plant them in fenced spots kids and dogs can’t reach.

12

I read that attracting natural predators, like barn owls or using predator urine (fox, coyote), also deters gophers. Creates a sense of danger underground

13

Had great results with raised beds lined with hardware cloth, plus a sprinkle of garlic and peppermint oil. No tunnels or mounds all season.

14

So, summarizing what works best:

  • Strong smells like castor oil, peppermint, garlic, lavender, daffodils

  • Natural predators or predator scents

  • Vibrations or sonic repellents

  • Physical barriers like deep mesh or gopher baskets
    Combine a few methods for the most effective, humane control.