Should I Flatten Mole Hills? Taming the Subterranean Landscape
The answer to “Should I flatten mole hills?” is generally yes, but with caveats. Flattening them is often necessary for lawn health and aesthetics, but understanding why they appear and how to do it safely is crucial for both your lawn and the moles themselves.
Understanding Mole Hills: A Subterranean Story
Mole hills are a common sight in gardens and lawns, often appearing overnight as unwelcome guests. But what are they, and why do moles create them? Moles are small, burrowing mammals that live almost entirely underground. Their presence is usually indicated by the mounds of soil they push to the surface – the infamous mole hills. Understanding their behavior is key to deciding whether and how to tackle them.
- Tunneling: Moles create extensive tunnel systems just below the surface, searching for food like earthworms, grubs, and insects.
- Hill Formation: Mole hills are created when moles excavate excess soil and push it to the surface to clear their tunnels.
- Seasonal Variation: Mole activity, and therefore the frequency of mole hills, can vary seasonally. They are often more active in spring and fall when the soil is moist and easy to dig.
The Benefits of Flattening Mole Hills
While mole hills might seem like purely negative intrusions on your pristine lawn, there are arguments for removing them beyond mere aesthetics.
- Improved Lawn Health: Left unaddressed, mole hills can smother grass and create bare patches. Flattening them redistributes the soil and allows grass to grow.
- Reduced Tripping Hazards: Mole hills pose a tripping hazard, especially for children and the elderly. Flattening them enhances safety.
- Easier Mowing: Mole hills make mowing difficult and can damage mower blades. Removing them ensures a smooth and even cut.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Let’s face it, most homeowners prefer a smooth, even lawn over one dotted with soil mounds.
The Right Way to Flatten Mole Hills: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a safe and effective method for flattening mole hills without harming your lawn or the moles themselves:
- Wait for Dry Soil: Do not attempt to flatten mole hills when the soil is wet or muddy. This will compact the soil and damage the grass.
- Break Up the Clods: Use a rake or shovel to break up the large clumps of soil in the mole hill.
- Spread the Soil Evenly: Rake the soil evenly across the surrounding area.
- Reseed Bare Patches (If Necessary): If the mole hill has killed the grass underneath, reseed the area with appropriate grass seed.
- Water Thoroughly: Water the area gently to help the soil settle and encourage new growth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Flattening mole hills might seem straightforward, but several common mistakes can actually worsen the problem or damage your lawn.
- Flattening Wet Soil: As mentioned before, flattening wet soil compacts it, making it difficult for grass roots to penetrate.
- Ignoring the Underlying Cause: Flattening mole hills is a temporary solution. If you don’t address the mole infestation, they will keep returning.
- Using Poison Baits: While tempting, poison baits can harm other wildlife and pets. Consider humane mole removal methods instead.
- Tamping Down Soil: Compacting the soil too much restricts root growth. Loosely spread the soil instead.
Addressing the Mole Problem
Flattening mole hills is a cosmetic fix. To truly resolve the problem, you need to address the mole infestation itself. Here are some humane options:
- Live Trapping: This involves setting traps that capture moles without harming them. You can then relocate them to a more suitable habitat away from your property.
- Natural Repellents: Some plants, such as daffodils and marigolds, are said to repel moles.
- Grub Control: Since moles feed on grubs, reducing the grub population can make your lawn less attractive to them. Consult with a local lawn care professional for the best grub control options in your area.
Comparison of Mole Removal Methods
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| —————– | ———————————————————- | ———————————————————————— |
| Live Trapping | Humane, effective if done correctly | Requires skill and patience, relocated moles may return |
| Natural Repellents | Environmentally friendly, easy to implement | Effectiveness varies, may not be a complete solution |
| Grub Control | Addresses the food source, benefits overall lawn health | May require professional application, can impact beneficial insects |
| Poison Baits | Quick results (but not recommended for ethical reasons) | Can harm other wildlife and pets, inhumane, avoid this method |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are moles digging up my lawn?
Moles dig tunnels in search of food, primarily earthworms, grubs, and insects. Their tunneling activity creates mole hills as they push excess soil to the surface. Addressing the food source or implementing mole deterrents are long-term solutions.
Is it harmful to flatten mole hills?
Flattening mole hills itself is not inherently harmful, provided you do it correctly. Avoid flattening wet soil, which can compact it and damage the grass. Spread the soil evenly and reseed if necessary.
Can I just ignore the mole hills?
While you can ignore them, mole hills can lead to several problems, including smothering grass, creating tripping hazards, and damaging mower blades. Addressing them improves lawn health and safety.
What is the best time of year to flatten mole hills?
The best time is when the soil is dry. Avoid flattening them after rain or when the soil is consistently damp. Spring and fall are common times for mole hill appearance, coinciding with increased mole activity.
How do I know if I have a mole or a vole?
Moles create raised ridges and mole hills, while voles create surface runways and may gnaw on plant roots. Look for the telltale signs of each creature to properly identify the pest.
Will flattening mole hills get rid of the moles?
No, flattening mole hills only addresses the symptom, not the cause. The moles will continue to create new hills if they are still present in your lawn. You need to implement mole control measures to truly get rid of them.
Are there any plants that deter moles?
Yes, some plants are believed to deter moles, including daffodils, marigolds, and alliums. Planting these around your garden may help to discourage mole activity.
Is grub control safe for my lawn?
Grub control products can be safe when applied correctly. Choose products that are specifically designed for grub control and follow the instructions carefully. Consult with a lawn care professional for guidance.
What is the best way to catch a mole?
The best way to catch a mole humanely is using live traps specifically designed for moles. These traps capture moles without harming them, allowing you to relocate them.
Should I call a professional to deal with my mole problem?
If you are struggling to control the moles yourself or are uncomfortable handling them, calling a professional is a good option. They have the expertise and equipment to effectively manage mole infestations.
What are the signs of an active mole tunnel?
Signs of active mole tunnels include fresh mole hills, raised ridges in the lawn, and soft spots in the soil. These indicate that moles are actively tunneling and searching for food.
How can I prevent moles from coming back after I flatten the hills?
Prevention is key! Consider using mole repellents, removing their food source (grubs), and maintaining a healthy lawn. A healthy lawn is less attractive to moles as the soil structure is less ideal for their tunneling. Regular lawn care practices can also help deter them.