Although rats can appear cute to some people, they carry a range of parasites and illnesses with them.
This makes it super important to be on the lookout for them, especially in the winter months.
The winter means they will be looking for nesting sites and could even enter your home.
Instead of harming the rats, plants that are “offensive” and “repulsive” to the pests can deter them.
These are great alternatives to traps as they won’t harm any animal in the garden.
Jordan Foster from 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 45cm to 60cm but can dig even deeper.
“Your focus should not only be on 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.”
Jordan added that using plants to deter rats is “effective” throughout the year, and this includes plants such as mint.
Although more suitable inside during the winter months, it can be very “offensive” to rats and planting it around the garden is a great way to keep rodents out.
The smell of garlic is also “repulsive” to rats, and if they get too close, “they’ll think twice”, according to the pro.
The expert recommended squirting garlic water down a rat burrow.
Garlic has several sulphur compounds which emit a pungent smell which rats “absolutely hate”.
Lavender, daffodils and marigolds are also said to be disliked by rats thanks to their strong scents.
