Rats will stay out of gardens with one simple plant trick

Gardeners are being urged to stay alert this January, as the cold weather could drive rats closer to their green spaces. Polytunnel Gardening expert Elizabeth highlighted that with freezing temperatures, these rodents seek out warm areas with food supplies, increasing their interaction with human habitats.

However, before resorting to chemical deterrents that may harm other wildlife or pets, there are natural methods to discourage these pests from taking up residence in your garden. .

Elizabeth has shared some insightful tips on how to use plants to keep the rats at bay "for good". She said: “Some plants naturally deter rats due to their strong sense of smell, and filling your flower beds and vegetable patches with them can keep the pests away."

For those looking to reinforce their garden's defenses against rats, she recommends planting daffodils, garlic, lavender, sage, marigolds, and oregano. Given rats' sensitivity to robust smells, certain aromatic flowers and herbs, such as lavender, which humans find pleasantly fragrant, act as powerful repellents against these unwelcome visitors, reports the Express.

Rats rely heavily on their abilities to locate food and detect predators. If aromatic plants effectively hide these essential scents, rats will often decide that a garden isn't an ideal place to settle.

Certain plants, such as daffodils, contain compounds that are toxic to rodents. Rodents tend to avoid areas where they believe the food sources could be poisonous.

The most effective strategy is to plant a variety of these plants around your garden's borders or in places where rodents are likely to burrow. This should help deter them.

However, it's important to note that daffodils are highly toxic to cats and dogs. If you have young pets or those prone to eating plants, it's best to keep them out of your garden.

Other plants like garlic, lavender, oregano, and marigold can also harm pets if consumed in large quantities. Therefore, it's crucial to do thorough research before planting these if you have pets.

One of the main reasons rats invade gardens is the smell of food and the presence of messy areas suitable for burrowing. If you decide to plant rat deterrent plants, ensure your garden is clean and free from rubbish or overgrown areas to prevent it from becoming attractive to rodents.

Elizabeth advises: "Regularly mowing grass, trimming bushes and removing weeds will reduce the adequate hiding places for rats to hide in your garden. Removing rat attractants from your garden will naturally deter them. Attractants include bird and pet food, compost, trash, fallen fruit and vegetables, faecal matter and water sources."