Garden plants rats find ‘offensive’ and ‘repulsive’ to grow this summer
Rats are common pests which are more prevalent during the spring months, causing damage to lawns and plants. To deter them, an expert has shared plants which will help to keep them away.
It is much easier to prevent rats from entering the garden than sorting out a rats nest once it is already established.
It is important to take steps to prevent the pests from entering your premises as they pose a major hygiene threat as well as carry a range of parasites and illnesses.
Jordan Foster from Fantastic Pest Control explained: “There is no doubt rats are smart. They’re good at hiding until it’s too late. Rats usually get into your garden because it’s an excellent place to hide and a constant food source.
“You’ve got to use some serious rat control methods or hire a pro to get rid of the rodents once they’re settled.
“Most rats burrow 45cm to 60cm but can dig even deeper. Keep in mind, however, that they can dig their way into a house by digging beneath its foundations.
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“Your focus should be not only on catching the rats but deterring them. The first thing that comes to mind is poison and traps.
“Surrounding your garden with traps and poisonous stuff is not very convenient if you have pets and children nearby, some organic pest control methods can help you. People have known for quite some time that certain plants are effective at deterring rodents.”
The pest control expert added that using plants is “really effective” in spring and summer when they are actively growing.
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One plant which is great at deterring rats is mint which is “very offensive” to rats.
The expert noted: “Planting mint in different spots around your garden is an excellent way to keep rodents out.
“The smell of garlic is also repulsive to rats. If they get too close, they’ll think twice. Try squirting garlic water down a rat burrow.”
Garlic has several sulphur compounds which emit a “pungent” scent that the pests cannot stand.
The pest control expert continued: “Imagine that one of our favourite smells, lavender, can have quite the opposite effect on rats.
“It can keep them from finding food because of its potent smell. Place it around decks, garden structures, and around the perimeter of your garden where rats might be attracted.”