dcsimg

PROTECTING HARDY BULBS FROM ANIMALS

By The Old House Web

PROTECTING HARDY BULBS FROM ANIMALS


There are several different animals which feed on bulbs, including mice, moles and ground squirrels. When planting new bulbs, it is advisable to use thiram either as a powder or drench to protect bulbs from these animals. Drenching annually may be sufficient to protect the bulbs in future years.

To drench the bulbs, place a hardware cloth around new bulb plantings using 1/4 inch mesh. Place the mesh at least two inches away from the bulbs, one to two inches below the bulbs and up to the surface of the soil. This technique may be used around an individual bulb or around a group or bed of bulbs.

Mice are often the main animal pests, although moles are often blamed for the damage, as the mice use mole runs to reach the bulbs. Many gardeners may not be aware of these tunnels and the presense of the mice in them. Elimination of these tunnels may be helpful in controlling the problem.

SOURCE

Glen Dudderar and Lee Taylor April 13, 1987

Go To Top of File               Main Page for this Data Base



Search Improvement Project