Gardeners across the UK are all too familiar with the frustration of waking up to find their pristine lawns scarred by fresh molehills. These subterranean visitors are a persistent nuisance, but a leading horticultural expert has revealed a surprisingly simple and natural solution that can be implemented this month.
The Natural Way to Deter Garden Moles
Moles are most active in spring and autumn, particularly during the early morning and late evening when the soil is soft and moist. Unlike some wildlife, they do not hibernate, meaning they can cause problems all year round. While they don't directly eat garden plants, their relentless tunnelling disturbs roots and causes unsightly patches of grass to die off as they hunt for earthworms and grubs.
David Fryer, an expert from the renowned gardening brand Mr Fothergill's, has offered his invaluable advice. With over 30,000 followers on Instagram and a heritage dating back to 1978, the brand is a trusted source for gardeners. David suggests turning to specific plants that moles simply cannot stand.
Three Plants Moles Despise
According to the expert, there are three key plants that act as effective mole repellents: euphorbia lathyris (caper spurge), daffodils, and alliums.
The most timely advice for gardeners right now concerns daffodils. November is considered the final opportunity to get daffodil bulbs into the ground before winter conditions become too harsh. These cheerful spring flowers pack a powerful punch against moles because their bulbs contain a toxic compound called lycorine. This poison makes the moles ill if consumed, and the chemical also leaches into the surrounding soil, creating a natural barrier that encourages the creatures to steer clear.
Another powerful deterrent is the caper spurge, often nicknamed the 'mole plant'. Its effectiveness is believed to come from its poisonous and irritating sap, which makes the soil unpleasant for moles. Some theories suggest its root secretions are the real repellent, while other gardening enthusiasts propose it simply thrives in drier soil where moles' primary food source—earthworms—is less abundant.
The third group of plants, alliums—which include ornamental onions, garlic, and chives—work by emitting a strong smell. This powerful aroma is particularly potent when the plant is damaged and can overwhelm a mole's highly sensitive sense of smell, rendering their tunnels uninhabitable and prompting a swift relocation.
Why These Methods Work
As explained by the horticultural resource Garden World, the science behind these plants is sound. Daffodil bulbs are toxic, so moles instinctively avoid their roots. While marigolds are also sometimes recommended for their aroma and natural pyrethrins (which repel the insects moles feed on), the caper spurge remains the most famous for its architectural appearance and mole-deterring reputation.
For gardeners seeking a humane and natural way to protect their outdoor spaces this autumn, planting a few strategic bulbs this November could be the key to a mole-free spring.
