Hey everyone!
With the warmer months approaching, I’ve been thinking a lot about how to keep my yard pest-free, especially from rats. I recently learned that certain plants can actually help repel these little critters. I wanted to share some information and hear your thoughts or experiences with these plants.
From what I gathered, here are five plants known for their rat-repelling qualities:
- Peppermint - The strong scent is said to deter rats.
- Lavender - Not only beautiful but also smells great to us, but not to rats.
- Rosemary - A culinary herb that can also keep pests away.
- Marigolds - Their scent may annoy rats and other pests.
- Cayenne Pepper - While it’s not a plant in the traditional sense, sprinkling this around can keep rodents at bay.
I’ve actually planted peppermint around the edges of my yard. I haven’t seen any rats since! I love how it smells, too.
That’s awesome, Hank! Did you find it hard to maintain? I’ve heard peppermint can kind of take over a garden.
It can definitely spread, but I just keep it in pots to manage it better. That way, it stays contained.
I wasn’t aware of these plants, but I’ve had luck with things like catnip! It’s not just for cats; I’ve heard it can repel rats too.
That’s interesting, Ben! Do you have a specific way you use catnip to repel them?
I just grow it in pots around my garden and a few near the house. So far, no signs of rats!
What about caring for these plants? I’m really bad with keeping plants alive. Any pointers?
Make sure to plant them in well-draining soil and don’t overwater! Most of these plants prefer to be on the drier side.
Thanks, that makes sense! I tend to overwater because I feel bad for them.
I think plants are great, but I also use traps in combination with them. Anyone else do this?
That sounds smart, Pete! Have you found traps to be effective even with the plants around?
Definitely! The plants help reduce the numbers, and the traps catch any stragglers.
These plants might not all grow well in my area due to the altitude and climate. Any suggestions for rat-repelling plants that thrive in colder regions?a
That’s a good question! I’ve heard that juniper can deter rats and it grows well in northern climates.
Thanks, I’ll look into that! I appreciate the help!