NOW that the weather has warmed up, many Brits will be taking the time to give their gardens a bit of TLC.
Whether it’s growing a , adding flowers and plants, or simply tidying up, garden care is in full swing.
However, one challenge that many will want to tackle after putting effort into their gardens is pests – by causing damage and ruining vegetable patches.
Fortunately, experts have revealed a simple and inexpensive way to help keep them under control.
This method could save you from trialling and testing various shop-bought products, as specialists say the treatment is “highly effective.”;
First, ensure your garden is tidy and move your bins as far away as possible, as rats are often drawn to scavenging through them.
Experts recommend sealing rubbish bins, properly containing compost, and cleaning up any spilt food.
Professionals from Dan’s Carpet Care also suggest using a natural repellent, such as peppermint oil, which they believe “works the best”; due to its “powerful essential oil”; properties.
It’s safe to use around humans and while being “highly effective against rats and mice.”;
To use peppermint oil, mix equal parts of oil and water in a spray bottle and apply it around your garden.
Temu is currently selling a 30ml bottle for £2.41 but you will only need a couple of drops in a spray bottle, which means it can work out around 50p.
The experts also advise placing bait in areas where you’ve spotted rodents.
They explained: “The strong scent of the peppermint oil will attract the rats, and then the repellent effect will cause them to flee from your garden for good.”;
Additionally, keep your grass short and remove any hiding spots to prevent rats from nesting.
A TikTok user, @toprecipe_andtips, also to keep rats out of your home and garden using an everyday household item – a bar of soap.
Instead of resorting to poison or traps, this cost-effective solution offers a safer and more natural alternative.
Soap is something most people already have at home, but if not, you can easily pick up a bar from Savers for as little as 79p, making it a budget-friendly way to protect your outdoor space.
The homeowner explained that the process is simple: start by grating a small amount of soap and adding a dollop of toothpaste to the mix.
Next, sprinkle in two spoonfuls of refined sugar and thoroughly combine the ingredients.
Finally, break up some stale bread, mix it into the concoction, and then spread the mixture around your garden to keep pests at bay.
The TikToker wrote: “The bread and sugar will attract the animals, but when they consume it, the other ingredients will be lethal to them.”;
