Gardening expert says these four plants will keep rats away from your garden

For those experiencing rats scurrying around their garden or, worse, in their home, you may be fearing the beginning of infestation. But there is help at hand in the form of nature itself. Four houseplants which have been recommended as 'natural repellents' to deter unwanted rodents, thanks to the strong smells they give off that rats find overwhelming.

Rats are notoriously cautious creatures with highly sensitive senses, leading them to avoid areas that smell overwhelmingly strong - as it's a stark indication to them of potential danger nearby.

Gardening expert at Tom's Guide, Cynthia Lawrence, explained: "Known for their fragrant properties, these favourite plants and herbs will actually be offensive to rodents since they have a very strong sense of smell, much stronger than what humans have."

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Cynthia added: "What's more, these natural repellents are non-toxic, inexpensive and safe to use (unlike some traps), which is ideal for using around children or pets."

Here are the four garden plants that Cynthia recommends to keep rats away, reports the Express.

Lavender

Among the top plant picks to keep unwanted rats away from your home includes lavender. Known for its relaxing scent enjoyed by many humans, it seems rats have quite the opposite reaction and will avoid its pungent fragrance.

Whether you already have a lavender houseplant or need to plant some in your garden borders or scatter dried lavender flowers near the entry points of your home - lavender can serve as a brilliant, natural rat repellent.

Cynthia explained: "This pretty, purple plant is known for its fresh scent that fills the air. But while the lingering scent is pleasant for our homes, it's also repulsive to mice and rats."

Chrysanthemums

Not only are chrysanthemums beautiful, but they naturally contain a pesticide called pyrethrin. This is not only poisonous to rodents but is also used as a natural pest control agent to get rid of flies, ants, and moths.

Cynthia continued: "Chrysanthemums are another colourful plant that emits a potent smell for mice and rats. The blooms contain a special combination of insecticidal compounds that can be toxic too, and an effective repellent."

"As these are popular flowers, you can easily find them in your local gardening store, and either place them outdoors or inside your home."

However, while chrysanthemums can be highly effective against rodents they can also be poisonous to cats and dogs so it is not recommended to have them in your home if you have pets.

Sage

Sage plants contain thujone and cineole, which rats find overwhelming and will likely stay away from an area if they smell it.

Cynthia said: "This fragrant herb commonly used in our pasta dishes, also makes a great pest repellent. Rats in particular hate the smells of both the green and white sage varieties."

"Simply sprinkle herbs onto soil, around outdoor plants, entryway crevices or cracks around the house. The pungent smells should be enough to repel mice and rats from entering."

Peppermint

Peppermint, with its spicy and pungent aroma, is loathed by rats due to the menthol it contains, which acts as a rodent repellent.

Cynthia explained: "Rodents hate the fresh scents of the mint variety. Particularly peppermint and spearmint, as these tend to be the strongest."

She advised: "Consider growing these aromatic herbs in your backyard, or placing them in pots to deter mice and rats."

For those looking for an immediate solution, Cynthia suggested: "You can also try pouring peppermint oil on cotton wool balls and leaving them in places of your home you suspect rats are entering, and it will also deter them from keeping your home pest-free this spring."