‘Strong’ scented gardens plants ‘effective’ for deterring rats – it ‘keeps them away’

Getting rid of rats can be a challenging, frustrating and often, an expensive task. But, there is a more simple, hassle-free solution. Surprisingly, there are specific plants that keep these pests from invading gardens and homes. Known for their fragrant properties, these favourite plants and herbs will actually be offensive to rodents, since they have a very strong sense of smell, much stronger than what humans have. What’s more, these natural repellents are non-toxic, inexpensive and safe to use (unlike some traps and chemicals), which is ideal for using around children or pets.

Bear in mind rodents are not only a nuisance, causing damage to properties and gardens, but they carry a host of diseases that can put one’s health at risk. That’s why it’s so important to pest-proof a garden to stop them entering.

Ricky Young, Pest control expert and owner of Young’s Pest Control, five plants that are sure to “keep rats away”.

1. Peppermint 

These rodents hate the fresh scents of the mint variety – particularly peppermint, as this tends to be the strongest.

The expert said: “The strong scent of peppermint can deter rats and other pests. 

READ MORE: ‘Fail-safe’ tip to stop cats and foxes pooing in gardens – ‘effective’

“You can plant peppermint around your property or use peppermint essential oil to keep rats away.”

2. Bay leaves

According to Ricky, rats “dislike” bay leaves. He said: “You can place bay leaves in areas where rats are likely to enter your home or store them in your pantry to keep rats away.”

Jordan Foster pest control expert at Fantastic Pest Control, also suggested using bay leaves to deter rats from gardens.

He said: “Bay leaves are deadly for rats. They eat it thinking it’s food. It’s poisonous for them, so they’re going to die.”

5. Black pepper 

Black pepper doesn’t kill rats but instead it repels them from a place permanently. 

It happens due to the spicy aroma that can give rodents nasal inflammation and physical discomfort.

Black pepper can be grown in the garden or purchased for less than £1 from local supermarkets.

The pest control pro said: “Rats dislike the strong scent of black pepper, so sprinkling black pepper around areas where rats are likely to enter your home or storing black pepper in your pantry can help to keep rats away.”