Rats are notorious for their destructive impact on gardens, crops, and homes, as well as their ability to spread diseases and cause property damage. Their presence is often widespread due to their high population numbers, making them a common problem in both outdoor and indoor spaces. If you’re dealing with a rat infestation, it’s important to take swift action to eliminate them and prevent further issues.
The most obvious signs of a rat problem in your garden include rat droppings, gnaw marks, footprints, burrows, discarded food, and damage to plants. If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to act quickly to prevent rats from causing more damage and posing health risks to you and your family.
Pest control expert Iliyan Andreev from Fantastic Services recently spoke to The Express about effective ways to combat rats in gardens. He emphasized that gardeners can use specific plants to deter rats naturally.
“Plants like daffodils, lavender, and marigolds are especially disliked by rats,” Iliyan explained. “These plants have strong scents or toxic properties that make rats avoid them.”
Daffodils, in particular, contain alkaloids that are toxic to rats. The strong scent, combined with their toxicity, makes them an effective natural repellent. Gardeners can strategically plant daffodils around the edges of their garden or near vulnerable plants to keep rats at bay.
Lavender is another excellent option for repelling rats. While its pleasant aroma is enjoyed by humans, rats find it unbearable. Lavender contains essential oils that not only repel rats but also help deter other pests like mosquitoes and flies.
Marigolds are also highly effective as companion plants. When planted near crops or other plants, they help prevent rats and pests from feeding on them. The bright flowers of marigolds act as both a visual and scent deterrent, as rats are cautious and tend to avoid areas with vibrant colors.
In addition to using these plants, Iliyan advised gardeners to keep their lawns well-maintained. Regularly mowing the lawn, trimming shrubs, and removing weeds can make the environment less inviting to rats. If you have a compost heap, turning it over regularly can disrupt any rats seeking shelter there.
Taking these steps can help protect your garden from rats and prevent them from becoming a larger issue in your home and outdoor spaces.