Mice have infested the garden, what should I do? - briefly
Install snap or electronic traps, eliminate accessible food and debris, and seal all cracks and gaps that allow entry; if infestation continues, engage a licensed pest‑control professional.
Mice have infested the garden, what should I do? - in detail
A rodent invasion in a garden requires immediate, systematic action to protect plants, soil health, and structures.
First, identify entry points. Inspect fences, gaps under sheds, and any openings around irrigation lines. Seal cracks with steel‑wool, hardware cloth, or cement. Install a low fence of fine mesh (¼‑inch) around the perimeter, buried 6‑12 inches deep to block burrowing.
Second, reduce attractants. Remove fallen fruit, seeds, and debris that provide food. Store stored feed in sealed containers. Keep compost piles covered and turn them regularly to discourage nesting.
Third, deploy control devices. Choose from:
- Snap traps positioned along walls and near active runs; bait with peanut butter or dried fruit.
- Live‑capture traps for relocation, placed in the same locations; release at least 5 miles from the garden.
- Electronic traps that deliver a rapid, humane kill.
- Bait stations containing anticoagulant rodenticides, applied according to local regulations and placed out of reach of non‑target animals.
Fourth, modify habitat. Trim low‑lying vegetation, remove dense ground cover, and eliminate standing water. Harden garden beds with raised borders and smooth soil surfaces to limit burrow creation.
Fifth, monitor continuously. Check traps daily, record captures, and inspect for fresh gnaw marks. Maintain a log of activity to assess the effectiveness of each measure and adjust tactics accordingly.
Sixth, consider professional assistance if the infestation persists despite these steps. Certified pest‑control operators can apply targeted baits, conduct thorough exclusion work, and ensure compliance with safety standards.
By combining exclusion, sanitation, targeted trapping, and habitat management, the garden can be cleared of mice and remain protected against future incursions.