{"id":15543,"date":"2023-12-07T12:24:31","date_gmt":"2023-12-07T15:24:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/?p=15543"},"modified":"2025-10-28T15:13:57","modified_gmt":"2025-10-28T18:13:57","slug":"how-to-repair-vole-damage","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/how-to-repair-vole-damage\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Repair Vole Damage to Your Lawn"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You might have gotten rid of the voles in your yard, but you\u2019re left with burrow holes, surface runways, and dead patches of grass. To repair vole damage on your lawn, it starts with assessing the damage and cleaning up debris.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then, you\u2019ll need to fill the tunnels and burrow holes, fertilize, and overseed bare spots. With help from the experts, we\u2019ll explain every step of the DIY process. Even with the right approach, though, you\u2019ll still need to exert a bit of effort.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To save yourself the time and trouble, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/landscaping\">hire a landscaping pro<\/a> who knows how to repair vole damage and restore your lawn, from filling the runways to overseeding bare patches.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-623d7c9b-7655-4c36-b0ef-d38242956b60\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\">Restore your lawn from vole damage in 5 steps:<\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/how-to-repair-vole-damage\/#0-1-assess-the-damage\" style=\"\">1. Assess the Damage<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/how-to-repair-vole-damage\/#1-2-rake-debris-and-excrement\" style=\"\">2. Rake Debris and Excrement<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/how-to-repair-vole-damage\/#2-3-fill-burrow-holes-and-runways\" style=\"\">3. Fill Burrow Holes and Runways<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/how-to-repair-vole-damage\/#3-4-fertilize\" style=\"\">4. Fertilize<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/how-to-repair-vole-damage\/#4-5-overseed-or-patch\" style=\"\">5. Overseed or Patch<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/how-to-repair-vole-damage\/#5-faq-about-repairing-vole-damage\" style=\"\">FAQ About Repairing Vole Damage<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Project Difficulty:<\/strong> Moderate<br><strong>Estimated Time to Complete:<\/strong> 2 to 4 weeks (including grass regrowth)<br><strong>Project Cost:<\/strong> Low to moderate \u2014 DIY repairs typically cost <strong>$18 to $75<\/strong> (seed, soil, and fertilizer). Professional <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/cost\/lawn-seeding-price\/\">overseeding costs<\/a> around <strong>$90 to $150 per 1,000 square feet<\/strong>, while <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/cost\/lawn-fertilization-price\/\">fertilization costs<\/a> around <strong>$20 to $80 per 1,000 square feet<\/strong>, depending on factors like yard size.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-1-assess-the-damage\">1. Assess the Damage<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-kirkbride_enterkinfoot_nithsdale_-_field_vole_burrows__runs.jpg\" alt=\"Patch of grassy ground showing multiple small holes and runways made by field voles, with areas of worn and brown grass.\" class=\"wp-image-52943\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-kirkbride_enterkinfoot_nithsdale_-_field_vole_burrows__runs.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-kirkbride_enterkinfoot_nithsdale_-_field_vole_burrows__runs-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-kirkbride_enterkinfoot_nithsdale_-_field_vole_burrows__runs-646x485.jpg 646w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-kirkbride_enterkinfoot_nithsdale_-_field_vole_burrows__runs-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_1024px-kirkbride_enterkinfoot_nithsdale_-_field_vole_burrows__runs-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Vole holes in a yard. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Kirkbride,_Enterkinfoot,_Nithsdale_-_Field_Vole_burrows_%26_runs.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rosser1954<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Voles, also called meadow mice, create shallow surface tunnels and bare patches as they chew through the grass roots and stems. Never underestimate these little creatures, though, as they can be really destructive.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At a density of <strong>100 voles per acre<\/strong>, they can destroy around 4% of alfalfa fields \u2014 about <strong>1,000 pounds per acre<\/strong> \u2014 over a period of 7 months.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While the damage left by voles on your lawn may not be as severe, you still need to survey its extent before starting the repairs. It\u2019s best to assess and repair vole damage in <strong>early spring or early fall<\/strong>, as that\u2019s when soil temperatures and moisture are ideal for seed germination and root growth.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also, identify which areas are most affected to help you focus your repair efforts and prevent wasting seed or fertilizer where it\u2019s not needed.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How to assess vole damage:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Look for runways:<\/strong> Check for narrow, grassless paths (about 1 to 2 inches wide) snaking through your lawn.<\/li>    <li><strong>Inspect for vole holes in the yard:<\/strong> Small openings (1 to 2 inches in diameter) near garden beds or tree bases often mark vole tunnels.<\/li>    <li><strong>Check the grass roots:<\/strong> Tug gently on damaged grass. If it lifts easily, voles may have eaten the roots.<\/li>    <li><strong>Estimate the affected area:<\/strong> Mark damaged zones with flags or stakes to plan where reseeding or patching is needed.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cVole damage is most costly during the winter,\u201d says Kyle Broderick, plant diagnostician at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. \u201cDuring this time, a shortage of preferred food forces them to eat the inner green layers of bark of trees.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He recommends paying particular attention to adjacent areas with heavy vegetation (e.g., parts of your yard with overgrown grass and bushes), because such areas are likely sources of invasions.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/signs-of-voles-in-yard\/\">Signs of Voles in Your Yard<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/how-to-get-rid-of-voles\/\">How to Get Rid of Voles in Your Yard<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-2-rake-debris-and-excrement\">2. Rake Debris and Excrement<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After assessing the damage, you\u2019ll need to rake the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/what-is-thatch\/\">thatch<\/a> in their runways. \u201cThis is primarily done to remove the dead grass, allowing new grass seed better contact with the soil,\u201d says Broderick. Also, remove their droppings to increase the likelihood of germination and lawn recovery.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember to use a flexible garden rake when <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-dethatch-lawn\/\">dethatching your lawn<\/a> to avoid tearing the healthy turf. Then, bag and discard dead grass and vole waste to prevent parasites or bacteria from spreading.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After raking, you can also <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-aerate-lawn\/\">aerate your lawn<\/a> to loosen compacted areas and encourage new grass growth.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/when-to-dethatch-lawn\/\">When to Dethatch Your Lawn<\/a><\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-3-fill-burrow-holes-and-runways\">3. Fill Burrow Holes and Runways<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_grass-plant-lawn-meadow-flower-mouse-1127106-pxherecom.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a grassy lawn showing narrow, shallow runways created by voles, with flattened grass and patches of exposed soil.\" class=\"wp-image-52950\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_grass-plant-lawn-meadow-flower-mouse-1127106-pxherecom.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_grass-plant-lawn-meadow-flower-mouse-1127106-pxherecom-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_grass-plant-lawn-meadow-flower-mouse-1127106-pxherecom-646x485.jpg 646w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_grass-plant-lawn-meadow-flower-mouse-1127106-pxherecom-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/rsz_grass-plant-lawn-meadow-flower-mouse-1127106-pxherecom-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Vole runway in a yard. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/pxhere.com\/en\/photo\/1127106\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pxhere<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you\u2019re done clearing the debris, filling in the vole entry holes with soil is an important activity, says Danielle Gunn, agricultural Extension educator at the University of Idaho. This will help restore the soil structure and allow new grass roots to establish properly.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To fill the burrow holes and surface runways, follow these tips:<\/p>   <ul style=\"padding-left: 1.1em;text-align: left;--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em;);--ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-spacing: 0px;column-count: 1;--ub-list-mobile-column-count: 1\" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-75899efc-7090-4dc1-99a1-994f8a0c5454\"> <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-9df409a5-c037-4625-98c2-ba4902538bc8\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Use a quality topsoil mix:<\/strong> Fill small burrow holes and shallow runways with screened topsoil or a mix of soil and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/what-is-compost\/\">compost<\/a> to improve fertility.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-8a85d9c2-8a29-4fe3-b667-9484613a65b9\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Tamp gently:<\/strong> Lightly press down the soil with your foot or the back of a rake to eliminate air pockets without compacting it.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-863f62b9-7609-48fe-918d-2a6f021e86ef\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Level the surface:<\/strong> Ensure the repaired spots are even with the surrounding lawn to prevent puddling and standing water.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-629321b4-45f4-47fa-882c-1090f6c46f75\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Water lightly:<\/strong> Moisten the filled areas to help the soil settle naturally before seeding or fertilizing.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li> <\/ul>   <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-4-fertilize\">4. Fertilize<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Since voles disturb the soil and grass roots, the affected areas often struggle to regrow on their own. To encourage new root growth, you\u2019ll need to replenish lost nutrients. Applying the right fertilizer gives your lawn the boost it needs to restore density and color.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Choose a balanced fertilizer:<\/strong> Use a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/9-faqs-about-applying-starter-fertilizer-to-your-lawn\/\">starter fertilizer<\/a>, which has more phosphorus for root growth.<\/li>    <li><strong>Apply evenly:<\/strong> Use the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-choose-the-right-lawn-spreader\/\">right lawn spreader<\/a> to distribute fertilizer across the damaged areas, following label directions for rate and coverage.<\/li>    <li><strong>Water thoroughly:<\/strong> Water the area immediately after fertilizing to help nutrients soak into the soil.<\/li>    <li><strong>Avoid over-fertilizing:<\/strong> Too much <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/what-is-fertilizer-burn\/\">fertilizer can burn<\/a> tender new grass shoots and delay recovery.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-5-overseed-or-patch\">5. Overseed or Patch<\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"551\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lawn-grass-overseeding.jpeg?wsr\" alt=\"A hand scattering grass seed over a small bare patch in a green lawn\" class=\"wp-image-139743\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lawn-grass-overseeding.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lawn-grass-overseeding-300x207.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lawn-grass-overseeding-656x452.jpeg 656w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lawn-grass-overseeding-150x103.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lawn-grass-overseeding-768x529.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Spreading grass seeds. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/gardener-repairing-lawn-grass-after-crippling-domashnim-pets\/205606436\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CreativeSuburb<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Voles often leave long, barren vole tracks where grass roots were chewed away, and these won\u2019t fill in on their own. \u201cReplant areas to desirable vegetation once the infestation is controlled,\u201d says Gunn.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-overseed-lawn\/\">overseeding<\/a> to restore your lawn\u2019s uniform look, remember to:<\/p>   <ul style=\"padding-left: 1.1em;text-align: left;--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em;);--ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px;--ub-list-item-spacing: 0px;column-count: 1;--ub-list-mobile-column-count: 1\" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-f5b25cd2-c7ef-4db8-8a77-bbc2c0d733bb\"> <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-5c322c8f-ec1c-47b5-b8ff-9b16711c20ce\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Pick the right grass seed:<\/strong> Choose a seed blend that matches your existing lawn type and your region\u2019s climate for best results.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-f73a805f-12e0-48b2-9d8d-b7014014911c\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Loosen the soil:<\/strong> To improve seed-to-soil contact, lightly rake or aerate the top 1\/4 inch of soil.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-6eea510d-88b3-489c-9f12-17350f7094f7\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Spread the seed evenly:<\/strong> Apply seed at the recommended rate using a hand or broadcast spreader.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li>  <li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23000000&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-9d456cc2-6359-40f4-be97-97cb9dda5c8f\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\"> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\"> \t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path fill=\"#000000\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path><\/svg> \t\t\t\t<\/span> \t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Cover and water:<\/strong> Gently rake again and cover with a thin layer of compost or straw. Water daily until the new grass establishes.<\/span> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t\t \t\t<\/li> <\/ul>   <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>See Related:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-plant-grass-seed\/\">How to Plant Grass Seed<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/how-to-care-for-new-grass\/\">How to Care for New Grass<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-faq-about-repairing-vole-damage\">FAQ About Repairing Vole Damage<\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1761421431320\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How Long Does It Take to See Results from Vole Damage Repairs?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">You can expect to <strong>see results within 3 to 4 weeks<\/strong>. Note that grass seed germination depends on temperature, watering, and sunlight, so cooler weather may slow growth. (<strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/best-time-plant-grass-seed\/\">When is the Best Time to Plant Grass Seed<\/a>?)<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1761421437728\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When Can I Walk on Repaired Vole Damage Areas?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Wait <strong>at least 3 weeks<\/strong>, or when the <strong>grass reaches about 3 inches tall<\/strong>, before walking on the repaired areas.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1761421442059\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How Much Water Do Repaired Areas Need?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Repaired areas should stay consistently moist until the new grass is established. Your lawn must be damp, not soggy.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-hire-a-pro-to-restore-your-lawn-from-vole-damage\">Hire a Pro to Restore Your Lawn from Vole Damage<\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Filling in vole holes and tunnels takes a bit of patience. Plus, you\u2019ll also need to restore your lawn\u2019s health and keep it well-maintained. So, if the job sounds like too much for you to handle, hire a pro who can <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnstarter.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=treatment\">fertilize<\/a>, overseed, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/lawn-care\">mow your lawn<\/a>.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read Next:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/voles-vs-moles\/\">Voles vs. Moles: How to Tell the Difference<\/a><\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle wp-block-ub-content-toggle-block\" id=\"ub-content-toggle-block-8bb2468b-89f0-4434-837b-1b181618f161\" data-mobilecollapse=\"false\" data-desktopcollapse=\"true\" data-preventcollapse=\"false\" data-showonlyone=\"true\"> <div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion\" style=\"border-color: #f1f1f1; \" id=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-block-\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-title-wrap\" style=\"background-color: #f1f1f1;\" aria-controls=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-0-8bb2468b-89f0-4434-837b-1b181618f161\" tabindex=\"0\"> \t\t\t<p class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-title ub-content-toggle-title-8bb2468b-89f0-4434-837b-1b181618f161\" style=\"color: #000000; \"><strong>Sources:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p> \t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-toggle-wrap right\" style=\"color: #000000;\"><span class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-state-indicator wp-block-ub-chevron-down\"><\/span><\/div> \t\t<\/div> \t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-content-wrap ub-hide\" id=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-0-8bb2468b-89f0-4434-837b-1b181618f161\">  <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/cms.unl.edu\/ianr\/extension\/wildlife\/sites\/unl.edu.ianr.extension.wildlife\/files\/media\/file\/controlling-vole-damage.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Controlling Vole Damage<\/a>.\u201d By Stephen Vantassel, Extension project coordinator, Scott Hygnstrom, Extension specialist, and Dennis Ferraro, Extension Educator. University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension.<\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uidaho.edu\/people\/dgunn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Danielle Gunn<\/a>, agricultural Extension educator at the University of Idaho. Personal interview.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umn.edu\/planting-and-growing-guides\/vole-damage\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How To Manage Vole Damage on Lawns, Trees and Shrubs<\/a>.\u201d By Jennifer Menken, education collections manager. Bell Museum, University of Minnesota.<\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/plantpathology.unl.edu\/person\/kyle-broderick\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kyle Broderick<\/a>, plant diagnostician at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Personal interview.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/rex.libraries.wsu.edu\/view\/delivery\/01ALLIANCE_WSU\/12332528290001842\/13333004440001842\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pests: Vole Management in Home Backyards and Gardens<\/a>.\u201d By Dave Pehling, Extension educator. Washington State University Extension.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/icwdm.org\/species\/rodents\/voles\/vole-damage-prevention-and-control-methods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Vole Damage Prevention and Control Methods<\/a>.\u201d Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/digitalcommons.usu.edu\/cgi\/viewcontent.cgi?article=2652&amp;context=extension_curall\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Voles<\/a>.\u201d By Ryan Davis, arthropod diagnostician. Utah State University Extension.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/ipm.ucanr.edu\/home-and-landscape\/voles\/pest-notes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Voles (Meadow Mice)<\/a>.\u201d By Roger Baldwin, cooperative Extension specialist. University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources.<\/li> <\/ul>  <\/div> \t\t<\/div> <\/div>   <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image: Vole peeking from hole in grass. Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/campagnol-mangeant-des-herbes-fraiches\/499192447\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Marytog<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>To repair vole damage on your lawn, assess the damage and rake any debris, then fill the burrow holes and runways, fertilize, and overseed.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":131,"featured_media":142226,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[669],"tags":[629],"class_list":["post-15543","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-pest-control","tag-pest-control"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/vole-in-lawn.jpg?wsr","author_info":{"display_name":"Melanie Joseph","author_link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/author\/melanie-josephlawnstarter-com\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Repair Vole Damage to Your Lawn<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"To repair vole damage on your lawn, assess the damage and rake any debris, then fill the burrow holes and runways, fertilize, and overseed.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/pest-control\/how-to-repair-vole-damage\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Repair Vole Damage to Your Lawn\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"To repair vole damage on your lawn, assess the damage and 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