RATS are pesky creatures that can be difficult to get rid of once they’ve made themselves at home.
Not only do they repopulate quickly, but rats can also be hard to spot in the garden thanks to their sneaky instincts.
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Fortunately, we’ve cracked the tell-tale signs they’ve infested your garden – and how to get them gone for good.
Droppings
As grim as it is, rat droppings are the most obvious sign they are in your garden.
The dark droppings are about 1cm in length and are often found by food sources, along walls or in sheltered areas like sheds.
How to fix it: Rats are usually attracted to gardens because food sources are left out.
Make sure to remove fallen fruit, seeds, or uneaten pet food so they won’t have a reason to come in.
Scent Trail
Another sign you have rats is one you won’t be able to see but won’t be able to miss.
These pests can leave behind a musky smell that lingers in the garden.
Many experts point out that rats have an “ammonia smell”, which is strong and pungent, somewhat similar to urine and sweat.
How to fix it: Inspect your garden for any holes or gaps that could be their point of entry.
Use wire mesh or steel wool to block off openings in fences, sheds, and even walls.
Damaged Plants
Rats are not fussy when it comes to food and will take whatever they can get, including your plants.
If you notice damage to crops or plants that are partially eaten, it could be a sign they’ve made your garden their home.
How to fix it: Certain smells can repel rats, so sprinkle substances like peppermint oil, citronella, or crushed garlic around your plants to keep them away.
You can even plant strong-smelling herbs such as lavender, mint, or rosemary to deter them.
Keep pests out all summer
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 mossies inside and out. Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.
Bite Marks
Rats have strong teeth and will gnaw on pretty much any surface, including wood, plastic, or garden furniture.
How to fix it: Introducing natural predators to your garden may help keep rats out.
Owls or cats can deter the pests so building an owl box and making your garden cat-friendly should keep them away.
Burrow down
The garden pests often dig burrows to nest in and are typically found in soft soil under garden structures or near compost heaps.
They are usually small holes with smooth edges and may have well-worn paths leading to them.
How to fix it: Humane traps next to nests can help you solve the problem.
Place the catchers around the garden, and once they’re in, you can safely move them far away from your garden.
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