I’ve heard old wives’ tales that placing moth balls in your garden can deter moles. Does anyone have experience with this?
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I’ve tried it before, but it didn’t seem to have any long-term effects. I think moles just get used to the smell eventually.
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You’re right, Nancy. Moth balls can act as a short-term deterrent, but moles will likely adapt. Plus, they’re not the most environmentally friendly solution out there.
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Actually, I’ve found that mixing moth balls with other repellents can enhance overall effectiveness. It’s all about creating an unwelcome environment for the moles.
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That’s an interesting approach, Sam. Are there any specific combinations you’d recommend?
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Forget moth balls; they’re toxic to the soils and plants! Better to use natural repellents like castor oil. It works wonders and is safe for your garden.
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I’ve heard about that too, but I’m not sure it’s a good idea. Mothballs are toxic and can contaminate the soil and harm other wildlife. Better to stick with natural repellents.
Owls are natural predators of moles. Installing an owl nesting box could help keep mole populations down.
Also, using them outside of their intended use is actually illegal in many places. It’s better to use other methods like traps or barriers.
It’s not just chemicals; vibrations and noises can also deter moles. Some people use wind-powered spinners or ultrasonic devices.
Another important thing to do is make sure your garden isn’t too attractive to moles in the first place. They love grubs, so keeping grub populations low can help.
Beneficial nematodes are great. They do more than just control grubs; they help with other pests too. But do remember, they need specific soil conditions to thrive.
Great thread, everyone! I’ve also heard the moth ball rumor, but you nailed it, @PestControlPete short-term only, and moles adapt fast.
@SimpleSolutionsSam I like your combo approach. Castor oil + predator urine + a few vinegar-soaked rags near tunnels creates an overall ‘nope, go away’ vibe.
Moles are persistent, moth balls are just a temporary shock. I’ve seen better results with frequent castor oil spray and aeration to make the soil less attractive.
@MoleHunterMarc Your question sparked a lot of great ideas. If you’re stuck using moth balls, at least pair them with something eco-friendly like ultrasonic stakes or mulch alterations.
I agree with @GardenGuruGary, moth balls are just toxic for your soil and not worth the risk. Castor oil or even planting daffodils and marigolds around the yard has helped reduce tunneling in my garden.
Funny thing, our neighbor hung wind chimes, and those vibration disturbances, plus keeping grub counts low, seemed to cut down activity way more than mothballs ever did.
@SafePawsOnly Makes total sense about nematodes. They control grubs, which mole love, and they’re pet-safe. That and a tidy garden means less reason for moles to visit in the first place.
I’d use bird netting buried around garden beds to make physical barriers, then the moles don’t even get close enough for moth balls (if you’re still using them).