Rats are notorious for invading gardens, drawn to food sources like bird feeders, pet food, compost bins, and even root vegetables. A rat deterrent plant can help in securing these items from rat infestation, which is a fully natural method. A gardening expert has revealed a common rat deterrent plant that rats detest, and growing it may be the key to keeping them away for good.
Natural Rat Deterrent Plant
To prevent rats from settling in your garden, regular inspections of sheds, furniture, and garden structures are essential. Rats often seek shelter in such hidden areas, and signs of their presence include small dark droppings or gnaw marks on wood and garden furniture.
Oliver Hill, from GardenList, offers advice on how to keep rats at bay naturally. He suggests that since rats are a part of the ecosystem and are merely seeking food, water, and shelter, it’s best to deter them without causing harm. Among his recommendations is the use of ultrasonic repellents, which emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to rats but inaudible to humans. Although their effectiveness varies, they can act as a useful deterrent.
Using Natural Predators
Rats have many natural predators, including birds of prey, foxes, and domestic cats. Encouraging these animals to visit your garden can help in reducing the rat population. Installing bird boxes to attract owls or kestrels is one way to make your garden more welcoming to these predators.
Planting Mint: A Strong Deterrent
Perhaps the most effective solution that Oliver suggests is planting mint. Both peppermint and spearmint plants are known for their strong odours, which rats find unbearable. According to Oliver, “Rats detest the smell of mint. Planting mint around the borders of your garden will help keep them away for good.”
However, gardeners should be mindful when planting mint as it can spread quickly and take over other areas of the garden. It’s recommended to grow mint in pots or containers to avoid this issue. Alternatively, soaking cotton balls in peppermint essential oil and placing them in rat-prone areas can also help keep the pests at bay.
Remove Water Sources
Rats need a daily supply of water, and areas with standing water are highly attractive to them. Removing water sources such as open containers, birdbaths, or dripping hoses can make your garden less appealing to these pests.
By combining these natural methods – securing food sources, planting mint, and inviting natural predators into your garden – you can effectively reduce the chances of a rat infestation without resorting to harmful chemicals or traps. Keep your garden rat-free with this eco-friendly approach.
