Summer is peak breeding season for rats, and these pests are wreaking havoc in UK gardens. However, a simple natural remedy costing just £1.47 can keep them at bay.
Why Rats Are a Problem in Summer
Rats become highly active between spring and summer, thriving in Britain's climate due to easy access to food and shelter. They can spread serious diseases like leptospirosis (leading to Weil's disease) and, in rare cases, hantavirus, which recently caused three deaths.
Rats feed on root vegetables, fruits, and bird food, and often nest in sheds, greenhouses, compost bins, and under decking. Protecting gardens is essential to avoid damage and health risks.
Peppermint Oil: A Natural Deterrent
According to Gardeners' World, peppermint oil is highly effective because rats have sensitive noses and detest its strong scent. Available at Asda for £1.47 per 60ml, it offers an affordable solution.
To create a rat-repelling spray, mix one part peppermint oil with two parts water in a spray bottle. Shake well and apply to plants or nearby areas. Reapply twice weekly for best results.
Other Natural Remedies
Catnip is another scent rats hate. Planting catnip on garden borders can help deter them. Additionally, maintaining a tidy garden reduces hiding spots. Keep grass short, remove rubbish, and clear overgrown areas near fences or buildings. Regularly moving objects around the garden also works, as rats fear new changes to their territory.
These no-cost methods, combined with peppermint oil, provide an effective, natural approach to keeping rats away from your garden this summer.
