Instead of laying out any traps that could harm the animals, an expert has recommended a range of “offensive and repulsive” plants towards rats.
Jordan Foster, pest control expert at 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 45 cm to 60 cm deep but can dig even deeper. Keep in mind, however, that they can dig their way into a house by digging beneath its foundations.
“Your focus should be on not only 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. Remember that this method is only effective during the spring and summer months when you can cultivate plants.
“You should keep the garden clean during the winter months, store your garbage under a lock, and keep an eye on your shed if you have one.”
According to Jordan, plants such as mint are “very offensive” towards rats so planting it around the perimeter of the garden could be a good idea to keep them out.
They can also be helpful in the home such as on a kitchen windowsill which receives lots of sunlight and warmth.
The smell of garlic is also “repulsive” to rats and if they get too close to the plant “they’ll think twice”, according to Jordan.
He added: “Try squirting garlic water down a rat burrow. Rats rely on their sense of smell to find food and avoid dangerous situations like predators or something repulsive.
“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 yard where rats might be attracted.
“Create a border of herbs like basil, thyme, and echinacea around the outside of your garden.
“If the rats smell them, they’ll think your place has nothing to offer and run to your neighbour, who probably doesn’t have a ‘repulsive’ border around the garden.”
To make a DIY garlic spray, simply add some garlic in a spray bottle with some water and spray it around the garden.
