Did you know that gophers can squeeze through holes the size of a quarter? This makes them pretty difficult to keep out of your garden. But don’t despair – there are a few things you can do to deter these pesky critters.
We looked into dozens of products the market offers and chose the best gopher repellents we can definitely recommend. We reviewed pet-safe repellents made with essential oils as well as ultrasonic ones that create a sound barrier to keep gophers away. The Gopher Scram Repellent won our hearts since it is made with only natural ingredients and it is also a great value for money. This product is a perfect choice if you’re looking for an eco-friendly gopher repellent. So, read on to learn more!
Other features: for all season use, specially formulated, organic, non-toxic
Introducing Gopher Scram, the best gopher repellent on the market. Made with a unique blend of castor oil, thyme oil, rosemary oil, white pepper, garlic oil, and citronella oil, this repellent is specially formulated to keep gophers away all season long. It’s also organic, non-toxic, and safe for use around children and pets. Plus, it’s easy to apply – simply use a lawn spreader or hand sprinkle for small areas. Reapply it every 30 days for best results. Gopher Scram covers up to 13,750 square feet and is available in a 22 lb. bag.
Unlike the other repellents in our review, this product primarily targets gophers by negatively affecting their sense of smell and taste. This specially formulated mixture is ideal for use year-round and works especially well for professional and large-scale use.
Other features: pet safe, can last up to three months
If you’re looking for a gopher repellent that is both effective and affordable, Bonide MoleMax RTS is a nice option. This repellent uses castor oil as its active ingredient, and it can cover up to 10,000 square feet. Additionally, it is designed for use on a variety of surfaces, including lawns, gardens, and flower beds. And best of all, it can last up to three months.
As a biodegradable mixture, Bonide MoleMax RTS won’t harm the vegetation, soil and surrounding flowerbeds. Another plus point is that it’s safe to use around pets. Unlike the other options in this review is that it comes in a convenient ready-to-spray bottle. There’s no need to mix any formulas. Simply spray affected areas.
Other features: battery-operated, patented “open wave” design, lasts for up to 18 months
If you’re looking for the best battery-powered gopher repellent, then the Bonide Molemax Sonic Spike is your best bet. This unit provides coverage of up to 30 feet, making it ideal for larger yards or garden areas. The best part? It lasts for up to 18 months on a single set of batteries, so you don’t have to keep buying new ones. And if you have a problem with other pests like rats, skunks, or ground squirrels, this unit will take care of them too. All you need are C batteries and you’re good to go.
One of the features that we found impressive is its patented “open wave” design. The open wave design is found in the tip of the product and maximizes the sound emitted. Another feature that sets it apart from similar models is the “chatter sound” that mimics mole predators. This chatter sound happens as a vibration every 28 seconds.
Other features: tunnel penetrating technology, non-toxic, no chemicals, rain-resistant
Wofimeha Mole Repellent is the best natural gopher repellent since it is made with a blend of effective essential oils, including garlic and peppermint, which effectively repel gophers. The long-lasting strong scent will keep the rodents away for up to 90 days, and the repellent is rain-resistant so you don’t have to worry about it washing away. If for some reason it doesn’t work, you can get a full refund.
Unlike some other popular repellents, this one doesn’t use any harsh chemicals to scare off moles. Rather, the fast-acting castor oil formula easily mixes with water and penetrates the soil. This makes it a humane way to keep moles away from your flower beds or vegetable gardens.
Other features: solar powered, IP65 waterproof, effective range of 70 ft.
This ultrasonic repellent is solar powered and waterproof, making it perfect for use both indoors and out. This powerful device covers 4,000 square feet and uses ultrasonic sound waves to repel moles, voles, gophers, and other burrowing rodents. In just 2-3 weeks, you’ll see a significant reduction in these pests on your property.
Unlike many other sonic spikes, including the Bonide MoleMax sonic spikes reviewed below, the Titoland Mole Repellent has an amazing range of 70 feet. This sonic spike is IP65 waterproof means you can even when it’s raining. And, since it’s solar-powered, it can provide enough power to operate for 24 hours even on cloudy days. The spike emits an ultrasonic sound every 2 seconds and even keeps snakes out of your garden!
First and foremost, it’s important to understand what gophers are. Gophers are small rodents that burrow underground. They’re known for damaging crops and gardens, which is why many people choose to use repellents to keep them away.
If you’re on the lookout for the best gopher repellent, then you’ve come to the right place. In this buying guide, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about gopher repellents so that you can make an informed purchase.
If you’re not sure whether or not you have a gopher problem, then it’s important to be able to identify these rodents. Gophers are small, typically ranging from about 5 to 14 inches in length. They have short legs and furry bodies, and their tails are usually about the same length as their bodies. Gophers also have large front teeth that they use for digging. If you see large mounds of dirt in your yard or garden, there’s a good chance that gophers are the culprits.
Gophers are always confused with voles, but there are a few key differences between the two. Voles are actually slightly smaller than gophers, and they have shorter tails in proportion to their bodies. Voles also don’t have the large front teeth that gophers do.
There are many benefits that come with using gopher repellents. For one, they’re a very effective way to keep gophers away from your crops and gardens. Additionally, they’re usually much less expensive than other methods of getting rid of gophers, such as hiring a professional exterminator.
Another benefit of using gopher repellents is that they’re generally safe to use around children and pets. This is not the case with other gopher-removal methods, such as poisons and traps, which can be very dangerous if not used properly.
Yet the best way to get rid of gophers for good is to use all three of these methods in combination. Take a look at our review of the best gopher traps as well.
There are a few different types of gopher repellents on the market, so it’s important to know what each one does before making a purchase.
Spray-on Repellents
Spray-on repellents are one of the most popular types of gopher repellents. They work by creating a barrier that gophers cannot cross. Most spray-on repellents will contain ingredients like capsaicin, which is a natural gopher deterrent.
Liquid Fence
Liquid fence is another type of gopher repellent that works by creating a barrier. It contains ingredients like clove oil and garlic, which are both effective at deterring gophers.
Granules
Granular repellents work in a similar way to spray-on repellents, but they’re applied to the ground instead of being sprayed. They’re usually made from ingredients like cayenne pepper and chili powder, which gophers dislike.
Pellets
Pellet repellents are another type of granular repellent. They’re made from ingredients like naphthalene and thiram, which are both effective at deterring gophers.
Ultrasonic Devices
Ultrasonic devices emit sound waves that are imperceptible to humans but can be very bothersome to gophers. These devices can be effective at deterring gophers, but they may not work as well as other types of repellents.
Now that you know a little bit more about gopher repellents, let’s take a look at some factors you should consider before making a purchase.
Chemical, Natural or Ultrasonic?
The first thing you’ll need to decide is whether you want a chemical, natural or ultrasonic repellent. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the one that’s right for you.
Chemical repellents are usually the most effective, but they can be dangerous if used improperly. Natural repellents are usually safe to use around children and pets, but they may not be as effective as chemical repellents. Ultrasonic repellents are effective, but they may not work as well as other types of repellents.
Coverage Area
Another important factor to consider is the coverage area of the repellent. Some repellents only cover a small area, while others can cover an entire yard. Choose a repellent that’s appropriate for the size of your property.
Spray-on repellents typically have a coverage area of around 200 square feet, while granular and pellet repellents usually have a coverage area of 1000 square feet. Ultrasonic devices can vary widely in terms of coverage, but most will cover an area of around 5000 square feet.
Ease of Use
Another thing to consider is how easy the repellent is to use. Some repellents, like spray-on repellents, are very easy to use. Others, like granular and pellet repellents, can be a little more difficult to apply. Ultrasonic devices are usually the most difficult to use, as they need to be positioned properly in order to work effectively.
Frequency of Applications
Another thing to keep in mind is the frequency of applications. Some repellents, like spray-on repellents, need to be applied daily, while others, like granular and pellet repellents, only need to be applied once a week. Ultrasonic devices usually need to be turned on and off as needed.
Safety
Finally, you’ll want to consider safety when choosing a gopher repellent. Chemical repellents can be dangerous if used improperly. Ultrasonic devices are safe to use around children and pets. So, choose a repellent that’s appropriate for your needs.
Price
Of course, you’ll also want to consider price when choosing a gopher repellent. Repellents can range in price from around $10 to $100, so it’s important to choose one that’s within your budget.
Now that you know how to choose a gopher repellent, let’s take a look at how to use one.
Spray-on Repellents
Spray-on repellents are the easiest type of repellent to use. Simply attach the hose to the sprayer and turn it on. Then, apply the repellent to the areas of your yard where you’ve seen gophers.
Granular and Pellet Repellents
Granular and pellet repellents are a little more difficult to use. First, you’ll need to spread the repellent evenly over the area you want to protect. Then, water the repellent so it can sink into the ground.
Ultrasonic Devices
Ultrasonic devices are the most difficult type of repellent to use. First, you’ll need to position it so that it’s pointing directly at the gopher tunnel. Then, turn it on and let it run for 24 hours.
The best way to deal with gophers is to prevent them from getting into your yard in the first place. Here are a few tips to help you do that:
Out top pick, the Gopher Scram repellent is the best gopher repellent on the market. It’s easy to apply, covers a large area, and is safe for use around children and pets. It’s also organic and non-toxic.
The Bonide MoleMax RTS contains 100% castor oil and can be used on a variety of surfaces without harming plants.
The Bonide Molemax Sonic Spike is a battery-operated ultrasonic repellent that features a patented “open wave” design for maximum coverage.
Now you know what the best gopher repellents are, how to choose and use one. With a little effort, you can get rid of these pests for good!
