Control Methods Not Recommended for Kentucky

No known short cuts or magic potions are useful in controlling moles. One of the most common of these so-called “sure-fire remedies” is to place chewing gum in the burrow. Research has shown that doing so has no effect on moles even if they eat it. Do not place broken glass, razor blades, rose branches, bleaches, diesel fuel, lye, sheep-dip, or human hair down the burrow system to drive the mole away. Do not use poison peanuts.  Remember moles eat insects and earthworms, not nuts. Poisons are also a danger to family pets or other wildlife. Zinc phosphide is federally registered for mole control; however, it is a Restricted Use Pesticide, which requires that the applicator be certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or work under a certified applicator’s direct supervision.

Warning: Never use a pesticide in a manner inconsistent with its labeling.

Failure to comply with all the provided directions may subject you to federal and/or state penalties. The use of pesticides or insecticides to destroy the mole’s food source is also not recommended. If you have a grub problem, contact your county Extension agent for information on treating the problem. Therefore, treat your lawn for a grub problem, not a mole problem. Some people think that mole plants, Euphorbia lathyris, and castor bean plants repel moles. However, these plants’ repellent properties are doubtful.  In addition, they are poisonous to humans.  Also, because they easily escape cultivation, they may become a problem weed.