In gardening, sometimes uninvited guests can enter the outdoor spaces.
We’re talking about pests, including slugs, snails and let’s not forget rats, which can be a pain to get rid of.
Fortunately, however, one expert has come to the rescue with his advice.
Robert Collins, an expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk, the UK’s leading job search website, has spoken exclusively to the Express about how to keep rats out of your garden.
Let’s look at the tips in more detail, and even better is one common ingredient that most people in the UK have in their kitchen.
Essential oils
Several essential oils can be used to repel rats from your garden.
Collins advised, “This is one of the safest and most effective natural ways to get rid of rats. Peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemon are great examples of essential oils that are great at deterring rats.
“The strong smell of these oils can easily deter rats. Mix the essential oil of your choice in a spray bottle.
The mixture should consist of one part essential oil and nine parts water. Then spray this mixture around the edges of your garden and any space you suspect is a rat habitat.
Onions
According to Collins, rats don’t like onions.
He said: “The smell of onions alone is one of the best non-toxic ways to get rid of rats in your garden.
“The pungent smell of onions can repel rats and prevent them from wanting to enter the garden. Slice a few onions and spread these slices around the edge of your garden or near visible entry points.”
You can pick up an onion from your local supermarket for just 12p from Tesco or 15p from Waitrose.
Steel wool
You can use steel wool to block access to your garden.
The professional suggested, “If there are visible access points where you know rats come in and out, stick steel wool in those openings.
“Steel wool is a good barrier because it is difficult for rats to click on steel wool. They eventually give up when they realize they can’t get through it.”
How to seal entry points for rats?
“The best way to seal entry points for rats is with steel wool,” Collins said. “Fill the gaps with steel wool, then put a caulk around the steel wool to make sure it stays in place.
“Alternatively, you can use spray foam to hold it in place. If you have cracks or gaps in your walls, use caulk. This creates an airtight seal that protects the home from pests.
“In some cases, the chimney can be an entry point. If so, install chimney grates to protect the entry point. This work is best left to professionals, as working on chimneys can be difficult and dangerous.
“Check for any vents and seal them with mouse netting to prevent entry. If there are gaps in your roof, seal them with sealants, roofing tar and bricks.
“Whenever you seal a gap to prevent rats from entering your property, it’s important to always use metal. Rats can chew through most materials.”
