Rats can be a major problem for gardeners, as they can nest and breed in gardens and can cause a huge amount of damage. But there are some beautiful plants that will send them running
Rodents, particularly rats, are unwelcome visitors in any garden, whether indoors or outdoors. Although they may appear harmless while outside, these pests can still wreak havoc.
Rats are notorious for carrying and spreading various viruses and bacteria, but fortunately, certain plants can deter them. Cultivating rat-repelling plants not only keeps them out of your garden, where they might nest, reproduce, and damage your crops, but also prevents them from infiltrating your home.
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Rats will stop at nothing to access food and shelter, chewing through wood or burrowing under concrete to gain entry. The gardening experts at Olle Gardens have shared some stunning plants that will send rats scurrying to alternative abodes, reports the Express.
They explained: “Rats and squirrels are just a few pests that like to wander around the garden and destroy crops – from digging roots to eating fruits and vegetables. But don’t be nervous, there are some plants and herbs that can drive away those annoying animals”.
1. Peppermint
Peppermint serves as a “natural deterrent” to rats, with the most popular varieties to grow being mentha spicata and menthe spiperita.
In simple terms, rodents like rats “do not like the smell” of this plant. However, to achieve the “most effective results” with this plant, gardeners should plant mint around the garden’s perimeter.
The experts advised: “Plant in areas where rodents can enter the garden. Once they smell this strongly-smelling herb, they will take off.”
To keep your garden safe from pesky intruders, consider these plants as your natural line of defence. Mint is best grown in pots or raised beds since it spreads quickly and can take over if left unchecked.
2. Cat mint
Cat mint is quite the favourite among cats, but rats have a different reaction – they “can’t stand them”. The strong scent repels rats effectively, and as an added bonus, it blooms with beautiful flowers each spring, offering a visual treat that “lasts for two months”.
3. Lavender
Lavender acts as an excellent repellent, ensuring rats “will not enter your garden”. The powerful aroma puts off their sensitive noses, so it’s effective spread around areas where these rodents frequent.
4. Narcissus
Finally, narcissus, more commonly known as daffodils, are unappealing to rats who are otherwise not fussy eaters. Their bold floral scent and bitter-tasting bulbs make them a dual-threat, keeping both rats and squirrels at bay.
