Moles may be tiny, but their ability to ruin a beautifully maintained lawn is frustrating. These underground diggers create unsightly tunnels and mounds to hunt for grubs and insects.
Homeowners often search for simple, home-based solutions to get rid of them. One popular yet unusual idea is placing marshmallows in mole tunnels, hoping to kill them.
But how effective is this sugary method?
1. Why Are Moles a Problem?
Though they don’t eat plants directly, moles cause problems by burrowing through the soil. Their tunneling damages plant roots, weakens the lawn’s foundation, and can cause grass to die in patches.
In addition, the tunnels create messy mounds and ridges. Even worse, moles can attract predators like snakes, foxes, and coyotes looking for a meal.
2. The Marshmallow Method Explained
The marshmallow method involves placing regular or mini marshmallows inside mole tunnels.
The theory is that moles, unable to digest processed sugar, will eat the marshmallows, which may then cause internal blockages or even kill them.
Supporters see it as a cheap and non-toxic alternative to chemical poisons or complex traps.
3. Is It Effective?
In reality, there’s no scientific evidence to prove that marshmallows work against moles. Moles are insectivores—they primarily eat earthworms and grubs, not sugary snacks.
They’re unlikely to eat marshmallows at all, and even if they do, there’s no guarantee the sugar will cause lethal effects.
This method may seem clever, but it’s more of a garden myth than a real solution.
4. Potential Dangers of Using Marshmallows
Using marshmallows might seem harmless, but it can backfire. Pets might dig them up and eat them, causing digestive issues.
Wild animals like raccoons or ants may be attracted to the sweet smell, leading to a bigger pest problem.
Worst of all, relying on ineffective methods like this could allow the mole population to spread while you’re distracted with a trick that doesn’t work.
5. More Reliable Ways to Get Rid of Moles
There are several tried-and-true methods for controlling moles. Trapping is the most effective approach, especially when done correctly in active tunnels.
Poison baits shaped like worms or grubs can be effective, but should be used with care. Castor oil-based mole repellents are another option—they drive moles away without killing them.
Physical barriers, such as buried mesh fencing, can block tunnels and protect specific areas like garden beds.
6. Are There Any Humane Alternatives?
If you’d rather not harm the moles, humane deterrents are available. Ultrasonic devices create vibrations underground that moles dislike, encouraging them to leave.
You can also use predator urine to simulate the presence of threats. Keeping your soil dry and less attractive to earthworms will also help discourage mole activity naturally.
7. Humane And Natural Alternatives
If you’re not comfortable with traps or poisons, don’t worry—there are still natural ways to deal with moles:
- Ultrasonic repellents send out vibrations that irritate moles and encourage them to leave.
- Predator urine from foxes or coyotes can be bought online and used as a natural deterrent.
- Drying out the soil by watering less makes your yard less attractive to earthworms—and therefore, to moles too.
8. Final Thoughts: Are Marshmallows a Myth?
Yes—using marshmallows to kill moles is more fiction than fact. While it may sound like a clever DIY hack, there’s no solid evidence that it works.
Moles are picky eaters, and marshmallows aren’t part of their diet. If you’re serious about getting rid of moles, it’s best to use proven methods like trapping, repellents, or calling a professional pest control service.
Save the marshmallows for your next campfire—not for mole control.