A HOMEOWNER has revealed how they missed the small signs in their garden, only to discover that it was overrun with rats.
The woman explained that she didn’t realise until she had her garden done up, only for it to become a “bit of a battle” with rats.
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Taking to the Facebook pageGardening On A Budget Official, she shared a post of her outdoor space asking for some advice.
She wrote: “They’ve dug holes between the fence on the left-hand side under the stones to/from next door.”
The homeowner went on to explain that she would “block them off” which would last a few months, but then she would begin to spot a new tunnel.
She continued: “I have bird food out and a raised vegetable bed in front of the shed, and appreciate they may be attractive but don’t want to get rid of either of those things.”
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“Other than keep blocking off all the entrances, any tips?
“I’m sure there were probably run routes I didn’t know about before, so I was just happily oblivious.
“Should I just leave gaps so they can get out and stop digging up the path if they are not going to go away? Or best to get a professional out to deal with it?
“The only bother I am having atm is the digging of the holes (and that I won’t want to touch whatever grows in the veg bed).”
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The post gained a lot of attention, with 163 people rushing to the comments section to share their thoughts, and there were lots of natural solutions.
Onions
Someone wrote: “Raw onion, they hate it.”
A second chimed: "Chopped onion with skin on chuck it down hole fill in I had the same problem up to now not seen any new holes I keep checking everyday can't stand rats there vermin."
According to Pest UK, the strong smell of onions can act as a repellent due to their offensive odour, but they do not generally kill rats. Raw onions, in large quantities, can be toxic to rats, but they are unlikely to consume enough to cause harm or die.
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Lavender
Another comment read: "They do not like lavender I was told." And someone else agreed: "Plant lavender or mint and they won't come it makes them confused and they hate the smell it's worked in my garden."
Rats have a highly developed sense of smell and are typically repelled by strong odours,according to Ark Wildlife.
And the pungent scent of lavender is not enjoyed by rats and can help keep them away from areas where it's present,according to Rentokil UK.
You can grow lavender around the garden, or used dried lavender in sachets or other containers to help repel rats.
Lavender oil can be used in a diffuser or on cotton balls to create a deterrent scent,according to Better Homes & Gardens.
It's important to note that while lavender can be an effective deterrent, it's not a complete solution on its own.It's best to use lavender in conjunction with other pest control methods for the most effective results.
Other ways to repel rats
Remove bird food
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Rats and mice are scavengers for any type of food, but experts say that you should avoid putting it on the ground and instead use a bird table.
A government website also suggests feeding birds early in the morning, as rats like to look for food at night-time when no one is around.
They also suggest clearing it away at night to prevent the rodents from being attracted to any food that has been scattered.
Remove shelter
Anything like trays or bird tables close to the ground that can provide shelter for the rats should be removed.
A government website warns that if you have a shed, rats will likely dig a tunnel underneath it, so it suggests raising it on bricks to make it less appealing as a rodent home.
Keep pests out all summer
IF you want to ensure that your home is pest free this summer, here's what you need to know.
Hornets and wasps - hate the smell of peppermint oil so spraying this liberally around your patio or balcony can help to keep them at bay.
Moths - acidic household white vinegar is effective for deterring moths. Soak some kitchen roll in vinegar and leave it in your wardrobe as a deterrent.
Flying ants - herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, mint, chilli pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cloves, or garlic act as deterrents.
Mosquitoes - plants, herbs and essential oil fragrances can help deter mozzies inside and out. Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.
The bricks will allow a draught and make the space feel more open, thus discouraging rodents from making it their home.
Experts also warn that rats only need a gap of 15mm and mice 6mm, so it is important to seal up any small gaps.
Keep bin area secure
If your bin area is nearby, pest control experts urge people to keep it as tidy as possible.
Make sure bin bags are closed tightly and not left outside for too long.
Be aware of bins located next to fences, as it means the rats can scale the fence and gain access to the bins.
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Kitchen cupboard spices
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Experts and council websites also suggest growing herbs such as spearmint, mint, and citronella in your garden, as rats hate the smell of the aromas.
Alternatively, homeowners can try spraying peppermint oil, castor oil, or citronella oil around the garden, while also soaking cotton wool balls in the oils and placing them around the garden.
