Managing Vole infestation organically - Ask Extension
Like many of our neighbors, our lawn is shrinking due to damage from voles, squirrels and rabbits- I have read a few things about garlic, peppermint o...
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Managing Vole infestation organically #946096
Asked September 29, 2026, 2:55 PM EDT
Like many of our neighbors, our lawn is shrinking due to damage from voles, squirrels and rabbits- I have read a few things about garlic, peppermint oil etc etc. Do any organic fixes work? We are also considering a yard redesign that would take away grass and focus more on a landscape plan with rock/ pavers/ native plants, etc. We would also welcome any help or suggestions for the latter. Are there any professionals you would recommend for such a project? At 70 it isn't quite as easy for all the do-it-yourself stuff..
Thank you!
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
Sorry, but while home-brew repellents might work temporarily, they eventually fail. Reducing habitats and fencing are two non-chemical options. Read here about critters such as voles and rabbits:
https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/lawns-and-landscapes-in-minnesota/how-to-manage-vole-damage-on-lawns-trees-and-shrubs
https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/how-protect-gardens-rabbits
You might find this link helpful for finding a landscape professional. Also, most large garden centers have landscapers on staff.
https://www.mnla.biz/search/custom.asp?id=2352
This is a useful link for doing your own landscape planning:
https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/lawns-and-landscapes-in-minnesota
https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/lawns-and-landscapes-in-minnesota/how-to-manage-vole-damage-on-lawns-trees-and-shrubs
https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/how-protect-gardens-rabbits
You might find this link helpful for finding a landscape professional. Also, most large garden centers have landscapers on staff.
https://www.mnla.biz/search/custom.asp?id=2352
This is a useful link for doing your own landscape planning:
https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/lawns-and-landscapes-in-minnesota
