Gopher and Pest Control for Inland Empire Lawns

Few things are as frustrating as watching a healthy Inland Empire lawn disappear into gopher mounds overnight. Burrowing rodents and soil-dwelling insects are common here, but a steady, layered approach keeps them in check. Here is how to protect your yard.

Identify the culprit first

Different pests need different solutions, so start by reading the signs:

• Gophers: crescent-shaped soil mounds with a plugged hole off to one side; plants disappear from below.
• Voles: shallow surface runways and gnawed plant bases.
• Grubs: spongy lawn that pulls up like carpet, often with birds digging at it.

Controlling gophers

Trapping is the most reliable and targeted method. Place traps in the main tunnel (not the lateral mounds) and check daily. For prized plants and raised beds, line the planting hole with galvanized gopher wire baskets so roots are protected from the start. Flooding and noise devices rarely work long-term in our hard clay soils.

Controlling grubs and surface insects

Grubs are the larvae of beetles that feed on grass roots. Keep your lawn healthy and properly watered to resist them, and treat with beneficial nematodes — microscopic organisms that target grubs naturally without harming pets or pollinators. Time treatment for late summer when grubs are young.

Make the yard less inviting

Pests thrive in stressed, overwatered, or thatch-heavy lawns. Aerating compacted clay, watering deeply but less often, and removing thatch all reduce the conditions pests love. A vigorous lawn simply recovers faster than a struggling one.

Frequently asked questions

Are poisons a good idea for gophers?

We avoid them — baits can harm pets, owls, and other wildlife that eat poisoned rodents. Trapping and exclusion are safer and more effective.

How do I keep gophers out of a new garden?

Install gopher wire under raised beds and line individual planting holes with wire baskets before planting.

Arbol Roble has cared for Inland Empire landscapes since 1997, serving Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Fontana, Eastvale, Corona and Riverside. Request a free quote or browse our residential and commercial services.