How to keep rats out of your garden with four plants they hate so much they'll 'stay away'
There are four plants that rats despise and will “keep clear of”, making these amazing natural remedies for rat infestations in your garden. Rats can cause chaos on crops and foliage, pass on dangerous diseases to humans, and wreak structural havoc.
If you’re witnessing the start of a rat problem, swift action is crucial. Even though chemical solutions exist, there are natural methods to keep these pests at bay, one of which is growing plants they detest. The experts at PI Gardening have revealed tips on how to fend off these undesirable visitors.
They propose certain herbs and plants “repel rats and discourage them from spending time around your garden,” primarily because these rodents hate the odour these plants give off. Luckily, these scents tend to be pleasant to our human olfactory senses. To eliminate rats from your garden, or stop them appearing to begin with, here are the four plants to start cultivating. We’ve also provided some guidance on where to acquire them.
Here are four plants to use to “stop rats” infiltrating your garden.
1. Peppermint
While we may relish the invigorating scent of mint, rats absolutely detest it.
Gardening experts claim rats “stay away” from the powerful aroma of peppermint and “will avoid any areas of your garden” where this plant is grown.
Given that mint can multiply swiftly when planted in soil, it’s suggested to grow it in pots near the plants you want to protect. You can find peppermint at Homebase for around £4.50 or Dobbies from £.3.14.
2. Lemongrass
Not only is lemongrass a favourite in the kitchen, but it also serves as a natural rat deterrent in your garden.
The experts have pointed out that the strong citrus scent of lemongrass is quite unappealing to rats, helping to keep them away.
Lemongrass against a white background
By planting lemongrass in your garden or placing pots of it around the perimeter of the area you want to protect, you can help prevent rats, as well as other pests like cats and mice, from invading your plants and flower beds. The best part?
Lemongrass is completely safe and non-toxic for both animals and humans.
You can snap up seeds on Amazon for £2.95
3. Sage
Sage is another herb with a powerful scent that humans may find pleasant but rats certainly do not.
Experts say: “Sage has a strong smell that rats dislike. This herb can also help to keep them away from your garden.”
Many gardeners opt to plant sage strategically around the plants that are most at risk, forming an effective and very affordable repellent. A variety of sage plants are available on Amazon.
4. Chrysanthemums
Here is a picture of Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemums aren’t just eye-catching; they emit a strong odour that’s a no-go for rats. The gardening gurus explain that this is because these flowers contain pyrethrum, “a natural insecticide that can also repel rats”.
These popular blooms are easy to find at any local garden centre and can be placed either outside or inside your home. Amazon offers a range of choices.