Control of Moles

Moles burrowing just beneath the ground can make for an unsightly mess as any homeowner knows.  While difficult to get rid of them, persistence will pay off.

Grub Control
Controlling grubs in the lawn with a timely application of Dylox or Merit will help to mitigate a mole problem. (*see Grub Control section for more info*) Milky spore is another alternative that will work long term as it is a bacteria that is deadly to grubs.

Poison Peanuts
Peanuts laced with Strychnine alkaloid are effective when a teaspoon full is dropped every 8-12 feet in the main runners.  Be careful not to touch the peanuts and to carefully recover the tunnel after placing the peanuts. Main runners may be found by tamping down the raised tunnels and waiting 24 hours.  The new tunnels formed within this period are the main runners.

Castor Oil
A novel approach to mole control is using castor oil.  Combine 2 fluid ounces of Castor oil and 3 tablespoons of liquid detergent in a blender.  Blend until frothy.   Add 8 tablespoons of water and blend again.  Then, use an Ortho Dial n' Spray to spray the castor oil solution over your lawn.  Dial the setting to 1 tablespoon for 1 tablespoon per gallon and apply by walking at a slow pace.  Then, finish by watering in the solution with a sprinkler for 20-30 minutes.  Apply in spring when the ground is soft and repeat when you see new mole activity.  One or two applications a year are all that is necessary. 

An already mixed form of Castor Oil solution is also found in Shotgun's "Mole & Gopher Repellent". Use this product to repel moles and gophers from grass and ornamental turf in spring, summer and fall.

Traps
Traps are probably the most surefire method of mole control.  A choker loop or a mousetrap baited with peanut butter and placed under a pot near the moles exit holes will yield results.

Repellent

Molemax 

• Repel moles, voles, gophers, rabbits, armadillos, skunks in lawns, flowerbeds and gardens.

• Protect new plantings from burrowing pests

• Clean, dustless, biodegradable granules are safe for use around children, plants and pets.

• Apply 1 lb. per 500 sq. ft