Re: voles

**"* B* <r*@gmail.com>**

When vole populations skyrocket, they can destroy decades-old plantings
quickly. Since they're eating roots, not just tops, the plants are goners.

A few years back, the Rock Garden Society published an article with advice
on control. Bait mouse traps with peanut butter, and place them near exit
holes -- then cover the hole AND the trap with an empty, inverted flower pot
(weighted down with a rock if necessary). This keeps squirrels etc out of
the traps. Because the trap is in the dark, the voles  are less timid about
approaching the bait. Check traps daily and reset.

This technique is most effective late in the season, when the voles are
actively storing food for the winter. Try to locate and bait every hole you
can. You may find some traps never sprung, because the tunnel is no longer
active, hence the need to try to cover as many as possible. It's
labor-intensive, but your hostas will thank you.

 Good luck!

Renée

Renée Beaulieu
2882 Erie Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45208
renee.beaulieu@gmail.com
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