Although I don't think dying is a necessary for buried traps, I like using wallnut hulls. It's a natural scent, does a nice job, and for the money can't be beat. boil and simmer about 3 dozen hulls per 5 gallons of water until it gets good and black. Strain off the pulp, and dye away. After the traps dry put a wax coat on them and you should be ready to go. Just a thought......