Rats can cause a lot of damage in your garden by burrowing under plants, eating your flowers and vegetables and even gnawing on trees. But there is a way to keep rats at bay — and it’s all natural
If you’ve spotted signs of a rat infestation in your garden, it’s crucial to act swiftly to prevent further damage. These pests are a common nuisance for gardeners as they enjoy feasting on fruits, vegetables and flowers, while also scavenging near your rubbish bins.
Maintaining a clean garden is the first step in keeping these rodents at bay. This includes ensuring your rubbish bins are sealed, compost is properly contained and any spilt food is cleaned up immediately.
If rats have already made themselves at home in your garden, experts from Dan’s Carpet Care who provide pest control services have some natural remedies to share.
Many people opt for homegrown solutions as a natural way to deter rats.
While these home remedies may require some trial and error, they are generally safer and more cost-effective than chemical alternatives, reports the Express.
The experts believe there’s one particular home remedy that “works the best”.
Peppermint oil is touted as a “popular natural rat deterrent”. The professionals stated: “This powerful essential oil is safe to use around humans and pets, and it’s highly effective against rats and mice.”
To utilise it as a rodent repellent, combine equal parts peppermint oil and water in a spray bottle. Shake the bottle to blend the ingredients and then liberally spray it around the perimeter of your garden.
Peppermint oil can also be used to create an effective rat bait. Position the bait in areas around your garden where you’ve noticed the rodents.
Experts have suggested a novel solution for gardeners plagued by rats, explaining: “The strong scent of the peppermint oil will attract the rats, and then the repellent effect will cause them to flee from your garden for good.”
They advise to afterwards make the area less inviting by tending to the lawn regularly, tidying up the greenery, removing shelter spots, and keeping bushes neatly trimmed to prevent the pests from taking up residence.
It’s recommended that fruit trees should be harvested promptly, branches pruned, and foliage thinned out, which helps deter the rodents.
Moreover, to fend off any potential unwanted guests, it’s wise to place structures like sheds, compost containers, and birdseed stations at a distance from the prime garden spots, shifting any enticing food sources away from where you want to keep the rats at bay.
