Plants That Deter Moles: Keep Your Garden Safe

The Problem with Moles

Have you ever stepped out into your garden, only to find unsightly mole hills everywhere? Moles can cause serious damage to lawns and gardens, leaving behind mounds of soil and killing plants in the process. Not only are these critters unsightly, but they can also be difficult to get rid of once they've made their home in your yard. Fortunately, there are a number of plants that can help deter moles and keep your garden safe.

How to Use Plants to Deter Moles

Before we dive into the plants themselves, it's important to understand how they work to deter moles. Many of the plants on this list have strong scents or tastes that moles find unpleasant. By planting these around the perimeter of your garden or near areas where moles are active, you can create a barrier that will discourage them from entering. Additionally, some of these plants may attract other animals, such as predators, that will help keep moles at bay.

15 Plants That Deter Moles

1. Alliums

Alliums, which include onions, garlic, and chives, have a strong odor that moles dislike. Planting alliums around the edges of your garden can help keep moles away. Plus, you'll have fresh herbs and vegetables to use in your cooking!

2. Daffodils

Not only do daffodils add a pop of color to your garden, but their bulbs contain a toxic alkaloid that moles find unappetizing. Planting daffodils around your garden can help keep moles at bay.

3. Fritillaria

Fritillaria, also known as snake's head fritillary, is a bulbous perennial that produces bell-shaped flowers in shades of purple and white. Its strong scent is said to repel moles, making it a great addition to any garden.

4. Castor Bean

While castor bean is poisonous to humans and animals alike, moles find its smell unpleasant. Planting castor bean around the edges of your garden can help deter moles.

5. Marigolds

Marigolds are known for their bright orange or yellow blooms, but did you know they can also help keep moles away? The strong scent of marigolds is said to be off-putting to moles, making them a great choice for edging your garden beds.

6. American Elder

The American elder, also known as the common elderberry, produces clusters of small white flowers in the spring and then dark purple berries in the summer. Its strong scent is said to repel moles, making it a great choice for hedgerows or borders.

7. Dandelions

While many gardeners consider dandelions to be a nuisance, moles find their taproots unappealing. Allowing a few dandelions to grow in your lawn or garden may help keep moles away.

8. Euphorbia

Euphorbia, also known as spurge, contains a toxic sap that moles find unappetizing. Planting euphorbia around the edges of your garden can help deter moles.

9. Catnip

Catnip is a member of the mint family and is well-known for its ability to attract cats. However, it can also repel moles due to its strong scent. Plant catnip around the perimeter of your garden to help keep moles away.

10. Calendula

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, produces bright orange or yellow blooms that can add a pop of color to your garden. Its strong scent is said to be off-putting to moles, making it a great choice for edging your garden beds.

11. Dill

Dill is an herb that is commonly used in cooking, but did you know it can also help deter moles? The strong scent of dill is said to be unappealing to moles, making it a great choice for planting around the edges of your garden.

12. Echinacea

Echinacea, also known as coneflower, produces brightly colored blooms that can attract pollinators to your garden. Its strong scent is also said to repel moles, making it a great choice for planting around the edges of your garden.

13. Hyacinths

Hyacinths are a popular spring-blooming bulb that produce fragrant flowers in shades of pink, blue, and white. Their strong scent is said to be off-putting to moles, making them a great choice for planting around the edges of your garden.

14. Lavender

Lavender is well-known for its calming scent, but did you know it can also help keep moles away? Planting lavender around the perimeter of your garden can help deter moles, while also providing you with fresh herbs to use in your cooking.

15. Mint

Mint is a member of the same family as catnip and is known for its strong scent. Planting mint around the edges of your garden can help deter moles, while also providing you with fresh herbs to use in your cooking or tea.

FAQs about Plants that Deter Moles

1. Do these plants really work?

While there's no guarantee that planting these plants will keep moles away, many gardeners have reported success using them as a natural deterrent.

2. How do I plant these plants?

Each plant has specific growing requirements, so be sure to research the best planting location and soil conditions for each one before adding them to your garden.

3. Can these plants harm other animals?

Some of the plants on this list, such as castor bean and euphorbia, are toxic to humans and animals alike. Be sure to handle these plants with care and keep them away from pets and children.

4. Will these plants attract other pests?

Some of the plants on this list, such as dandelions and mint, may attract other pests like bees or aphids. Be sure to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each plant before adding it to your garden.

5. Are there any other ways to deter moles?

In addition to planting these natural deterrents, you can also try using mole repellent sprays or setting up physical barriers like mesh or fencing.