The 20p hack will keep rats and mice out of your garden for good and you'll probably already have it in the cupboard

Scottish Sun

21-04-2025

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A GARDENING expert has revealed a 20p trick to banish rats and mice from your garden.
Over the Easter bank holiday weekend, many of us have likely spent as much time as we can soaking up the sun in the garden.
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Brown Rats carry many nasty diseases which they can spread to humans
Credit: Getty
But there's nothing worse than settling down in your favourite deck chair with a cup of tea and a good book, only to spot a pesky rat peering out from behind the bushes.
Not only are the critters dirty and unsightly, but they can also wreak havoc on your home and garden, and can even carry harmful diseases.
Although your first thought might be to put down poison or use traps, there are a number of natural methods you can try instead, which are cheaper.
Additionally, rat poison is toxic to pets and this method doesn't eliminate the problem, as more rats will continue to flock to your garden.
Instead, experts urge trying out natural tricks to remove the unwanted pests, such as garlic.
Both rats and mice hate the smell of garlic, due to their heightened sense of smell.
Therefore, if you place a bulb (around 20p from the supermarket) around your garden, it will act as a deterrent, keeping them away.
Glen Peskett, DIY expert from Saxton Blades, said: 'Garlic is a favourite all around the world, it smells amazing, has health benefits and transforms any dish you put it in.
"But for rats? That strong, pungent smell is their absolute nightmare.
'Rats rely heavily on their sense of smell to navigate and find food.
Tips and Tricks to Keep Your Garden Pest-Free
"Garlic, with its strong sulfur compounds, overwhelms their sense of smell and makes them feel disoriented.
"These compounds are also something rats associate with toxic substances, naturally deterring them from entering your home."
To keep rats and mice out of your home, the expert recommended placing garlic around entry points in your garage, basement or loft.
It is also recommended to regularly replace the garlic, as its scent will diminish over time.
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.
Fantastic Pest Control said: 'When exposed to garlic, rodents are likely to avoid the area, as the pungent scent overwhelms their keen sense of smell and interferes with their natural behaviour.
'Garlic's repellent effect can be used in various ways to deter mice.
"Placing whole garlic cloves in entry points, behind furniture, and in areas where mice have been seen can help keep them at bay.
'Additionally, crushed garlic releases an even more potent aroma, making it an excellent option for creating a more powerful barrier.
"Mixing garlic with water and spraying it around problem areas is another effective method."