Have you ever noticed mysterious mounds of soil appearing overnight in your meticulously cared-for garden? That’s the handiwork of moles. These small, insect-eating mammals are notorious for their ability to turn a beautiful garden into a network of tunnels and soil piles.
But what lures them into our gardens in the first place? Surprisingly, it’s not the plants or flowers, but the scent of certain things beneath the soil that attracts them.
Here’s the five most irresistible scents that are like a siren call to moles, drawing them into gardens everywhere.
1. Earthworms
Earthworms are, without a doubt, a mole’s favorite snack. The smell of these wriggly creatures wafting through the soil is irresistible to moles. Rich in nutrients, earthworms provide a high-protein feast that moles simply can’t pass up.
Scientists estimate that a single mole can consume up to 50 grams of earthworms per day (ref). That’s about the weight of a small chocolate bar, which, in the world of moles, is a significant meal.
Moreover, the abundance of earthworms in a garden is often indicative of healthy, fertile soil. So, while having moles might be frustrating, it’s also a sign that your garden is thriving below the surface. Interestingly, the more earthworms there are, the more attractive your garden is to these underground creatures.
2. Grubs & Insects
Besides earthworms, moles are drawn to the scent of grubs and various insects nestled in the soil. These include beetles, larvae, and other small invertebrates, which are like a buffet for moles. This wide array of insects not only provides a balanced diet but also keeps the mole population actively burrowing in search of their next meal.
The presence of these insects can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, moles help control the population of insects that could potentially harm your garden. On the other, their tunneling can disrupt root systems and create unsightly mounds. It’s a garden ecosystem’s catch-22 situation, with moles playing a pivotal, albeit controversial, role.
3. Moist Soil
Moist soil carries scents better than dry soil, making it an excellent medium for moles to detect their prey. It’s not the scent of the soil itself that attracts them, but the ease with which they can hunt in it. Moist earth is easier for moles to tunnel through, allowing them to cover more ground in search of food.
Additionally, moist soil is a sign of a healthy, well-irrigated garden that is likely to be rich in worms and insects. The combination of ease of movement and the promise of a good meal makes moist gardens particularly inviting to these furry excavators.
4. Decaying Organic Matter
The scent of decaying organic matter, such as compost piles or mulched areas, is like a dinner bell for moles. This decay is often teeming with insects, providing a concentrated feeding area for moles. Moreover, the process of decay generates warmth, attracting earthworms and, consequently, moles.
Gardeners who use organic matter to enrich their soil might inadvertently attract more moles. However, this shouldn’t discourage the practice of composting, as the benefits to soil health far outweigh the potential for increased mole activity. It’s all about finding the right balance in your garden ecosystem.
5. Wet Pet Food or Compost Scents from Trash
Lastly, the scent of wet pet food or decomposing compostable material in trash bins can attract moles. While moles primarily feed on insects and earthworms, the smell of these food sources can draw them closer to human habitation, where they might then discover the bounty beneath the garden. It’s an unintended invitation, signaling to moles that your yard might just be their next great hunting ground.
Limiting exposure to these scents can help deter moles, but it’s also essential to remember that moles are part of the natural balance. They aerate the soil and help control insect populations, contributing to the health of your garden in the long run.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.