How can I drive mice out of the garden? - briefly
Install a perimeter of fine hardware cloth or copper tape to block entry and remove attractants by clearing debris and securing food sources. Apply natural repellents such as peppermint oil, crushed garlic, or plant mouse‑deterring herbs like mint and marigold to discourage any remaining rodents.
How can I drive mice out of the garden? - in detail
Mice infestations in vegetable beds and ornamental plots reduce yields and damage plant roots. Effective control combines habitat modification, physical barriers, and targeted baiting.
First, eliminate shelter and food sources. Keep grass trimmed, remove leaf litter, and store compost in sealed containers. Harvest ripe produce promptly and clean fallen fruit. Mulch with coarse material rather than soft straw, which provides nesting sites.
Second, install barriers. Bury hardware cloth (½‑inch mesh) around the perimeter of the garden, extending it 6‑12 inches below ground to block burrowing. Cover raised beds and seed trays with fine netting or clear plastic to prevent entry while allowing light penetration.
Third, apply repellents. Sprinkle powdered cayenne pepper, dried mint, or crushed garlic around plant stems; these odors deter rodents without harming crops. Reapply after rain or irrigation.
Fourth, employ trapping. Use snap traps placed along established runways, baited with peanut butter or oats. Position traps perpendicular to walls, with trigger faces toward the wall, to increase capture rates. Check traps daily and dispose of captured mice promptly.
Fifth, consider rodenticides as a last resort. Choose anticoagulant baits formulated for outdoor use, place them in tamper‑resistant stations, and follow label instructions to minimize risk to non‑target wildlife. Monitor bait stations regularly and replace as needed.
Finally, maintain vigilance. Conduct weekly inspections for fresh burrows, gnaw marks, or droppings. Promptly address any new activity to prevent re‑infestation. Consistent application of these measures will keep the garden free of mice.