Molehills and Tough Groundcovers: Practical Tips for Low‑Maintenance Lawns

Flattening a molehill compacts the soil, seals the animal’s tunnel, and often leads to more hills later. Gardeners are advised to lift the loose earth instead—using a spade when the ground is frozen in winter or a hand shovel in spring or summer—while keeping the mole’s exit hole open. The removed soil can be reused as a nutrient‑rich seedbed, and moles themselves are protected wildlife that help aerate and control soil pests.

For areas where traditional grass is difficult to keep, six foot‑traffic‑tolerant groundcover species are recommended as alternatives. These hardy plants form dense, green mats that require little mowing, tolerate wear, and thrive in challenging garden spots, offering a low‑maintenance solution for sustainable lawns.