Winterize Your Garden: How to Protect Your Yard from Burrowing Pests

Action Termite | Nov 5, 2024

As winter approaches, gardeners face unique challenges in protecting their yards from the damaging effects of burrowing pests like moles and voles. While these creatures may seem harmless, they can wreak havoc on your well-manicured lawns and cherished plants. By taking proactive measures to winterize your garden, you can safeguard your landscape and ensure it's ready to thrive once spring arrives. Here’s a guide to keep your garden protected and pristine throughout the colder months.

Understanding the Burrowers

Before delving into prevention techniques, it's crucial to understand the nature of the pests you're dealing with.

Moles

Moles are solitary creatures with streamlined bodies that make them adept at tunneling through the soil. Their primary diet consists of insects, earthworms, and grubs, and while they don't eat plants, their extensive tunneling can damage plant roots, disrupt soil structure, and create unsightly mounds in your lawn.

Voles

Voles, often mistaken for mice, are small rodents that feed on plants, including bulbs, roots, and stems. They create shallow tunnels and can cause significant harm by girdling trees and shrubs, a process where they strip the bark around the base, potentially killing the plants.

Winterizing Your Garden

1. Lawn Maintenance

Start winterizing by focusing on your lawn. Aerate the soil to improve drainage and reduce compaction, making it less inviting for moles. Maintaining a healthy, well-drained lawn can deter these critters, as they prefer softer, easier-to-dig soil.

2. Protective Barriers

For voles, consider installing protective barriers around trees and shrubs. Wrap the bases with mesh or hardware cloth, burying it a few inches into the ground and extending it upwards to deter climbing. This physical barrier prevents bark damage and protects the plant base.

3. Natural Repellents

Use natural repellents to discourage both moles and voles. Castor oil-based solutions can be spread over your lawn to make it less palatable for moles. For voles, try planting deterrents like garlic, daffodils, or marigolds, which are unappealing to them.

4. Trapping and Removal

If you’re dealing with an existing burrowing problem, trapping can be effective. For moles, place traps in active tunnels; for voles, use small traps near runways. Ensure you follow local wildlife regulations and guidelines when trapping.

5. Professional Pest Control

For those who prefer professional assistance, hiring a pest control service can be invaluable. Expert services, like those from Action Termite, offer targeted solutions tailored to your specific pest problems, ensuring your garden remains undisturbed all winter long.

Additional Preventive Measures

a. Mulching Wisely

Apply mulch carefully, avoiding piling it directly against plant stems. While mulch helps insulate roots, too much can provide cover for voles.

b. Monitor Plant Health

Regularly check plants for signs of girdling or damage. Early detection allows for swift action, preventing extensive harm.

c. Encourage Natural Predators

Owls, hawks, and snakes are natural predators of voles and moles. Encourage them by creating a welcoming environment, like installing perches or owl boxes to help keep pest populations in check.

d. Maintain Cleanliness

Keep your garden clean and tidy. Remove fallen fruits, nuts, and excess vegetation, as these can attract voles. Regular maintenance reduces hiding spots and food sources for these pests.

Conclusion

Winterizing your garden against burrowing pests requires a blend of preventive strategies and active measures. By preparing in advance, you can protect your yard from the disruptions caused by moles and voles. Whether you choose to undertake these tasks independently or seek expert help, ensuring your landscape's health and beauty throughout winter is within reach.

For specialized pest control solutions, don't hesitate to contact Action Termite, where professionals can provide comprehensive services to keep your garden safe, secure, and ready for the spring bloom.