Keep rats out your garden with DIY deterrent that rodents 'cannot stand'

Rats aren't just a garden menace; they're carriers of dangerous diseases and can become a serious issue if they infiltrate your home.

While traps and poison are go-to solutions for these pests, experts recommend natural alternatives as a first line of defence. Rat poison is hazardous, threatening not only wildlife but also pets and humans, with high levels found in animals further up the food chain. Traps and poisons don't provide a lasting fix to prevent rats from returning to your garden, a these methods merely kill the rodents.

For those seeking a sustainable, natural method to repel rats, prevention is key. A clever trick to keep rats at bay using a common kitchen staple they 'despise' has been shared by the gardening gurus at Primrose. The two natural rat repellents that could be highly effective at preventing a rodent infestation, reports the Mirror.

Essential oils

Boasting one of the keenest olfactory senses among all creatures, even outperforming dogs, rats are highly sensitive to smells.

The specialists noted: "When used in concentration, essential oils can do wonders in deterring rats from your garden due to their potency."

Peppermint oil, citronella, and eucalyptus essential oils in their pure form are all "smells that rats will dislike". The professionals pointed out that a few drops of these oils in their pure form around the areas where you've noticed rat activity "should do the trick".

Alternatively, you can soak cotton wool in essential oil and place it in areas frequented by rats.

Hot pepper

Even more effective than essential oils, experts reveal that rats "can't stand hot pepper or anything spicy", and using this can permanently deter these pests.

To create a "homemade natural rat repellent spray" from the spice, begin by blending cayenne pepper or chilli flakes with water. Boil the mixture vigorously to infuse the chilli, then let it cool down.

The longer the solution sits, the stronger the chilli potency will be, according to the Express.

For those who have used chilli flakes, sieve them out after. Add in a small quantity of biodegradable castile soap and shift the mix into a spray bottle.

Finally, apply the spray generously to areas showing rat activity.

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