What to Do About Root Damage Caused by Gophers

by

Gophers are small, burrowing rodents that can cause significant damage to your garden or lawn by gnawing on roots and underground cables. Their tunneling activities can weaken plants, cause uneven ground, and lead to costly repairs. Understanding how to manage gopher root damage is essential for maintaining a healthy landscape.

Identifying Gopher Root Damage

Before taking action, it’s important to recognize signs of gopher activity. Typical indicators include:

  • Surface mounds or raised ridges in the soil
  • Exposed roots or chewed plant stems
  • Uneven or sunken areas in the lawn
  • Presence of fresh tunnels or burrows

Preventive Measures

Preventing gopher damage starts with making your property less attractive to these rodents. Consider the following strategies:

  • Remove food sources such as fallen fruits and accessible vegetable patches
  • Plant gopher-resistant plants or barriers around vulnerable areas
  • Maintain a healthy, dense lawn to discourage burrowing
  • Install underground fencing or gopher-proof barriers

Control and Removal Techniques

If gophers are already damaging your roots, consider these control methods:

  • Live trapping: Use humane traps to catch and relocate gophers away from your property.
  • Exclusion: Install underground barriers made of hardware cloth or metal mesh around gardens and trees.
  • Repellents: Apply commercial gopher repellents or natural deterrents like castor oil.
  • Professional removal: Hire pest control experts for persistent infestations.

Repairing Root Damage

Once gophers are removed, assess the extent of root damage. Healthy roots can often recover with proper care. For severely damaged plants:

  • Prune away broken or diseased roots
  • Apply root stimulants or fertilizers to promote regrowth
  • Water deeply to encourage new root development
  • Replace severely damaged plants if recovery is unlikely

Long-Term Management

To prevent future root damage, maintain ongoing vigilance. Regularly inspect your yard for signs of gopher activity and reinforce barriers as needed. Combining prevention with control measures creates a healthier environment for your plants and reduces the risk of costly repairs.