How To Get Rid Of Voles?

Q: We have battled voles for years in our big shrub/perennial garden and they
love chewing the roots. For my new hydrangea, my husband suggested taking
a large black plastic pot, cutting a ring eight inches tall, and planting the new
shrub through it. I would add an expanded slate (Permatill) inside and outside the
ring. Do you have any other suggestions? 

A: The plastic ring filled with Permatill is a great idea. Voles won’t be able to
easily tunnel through the collapsing soil to the roots. My go-to vole response
is to use multiple mousetraps (at least six) for control. My best bait is instant
apple-cinnamon oatmeal. Mix a tablespoon of the cereal with just enough
water to wet it until it is the consistency of thick cookie dough. Put this on the
mousetrap trigger and a vole will have a delicious last meal. Be sure to cover
each trap so birds can’t find it.