Alan Titchmarsh has urged gardeners to complete one key task immediately to keep rats away all summer. The gardening expert shared his advice in a video for BBC Gardeners' World Magazine, focusing on lawn care and compost heap maintenance.
Why Rats Love Gardens
Brown rats, also known as common or sewer rats, carry many diseases that can spread to humans. With warmer weather, more people are spending time outdoors, but rats can turn a garden into a nightmare. In the UK, rat populations range from 10 million to over 100 million.
Key Task: Cut Grass Short
Titchmarsh explained that rats are furtive and prefer cover and shelter. They dislike close-mown grass where they can be seen. He advised: "Cut it short, have a stripe or two if you want, and that way you can see. Look, no rats." Longer grass provides habitat for insects and retains moisture, but it also gives rats access.
Secure Compost Heaps
Rats love compost heaps because of the heat from rotting vegetation. To prevent them from treating your compost as a "central heated house," ensure the structure is solid. Titchmarsh uses strong wooden sides and steel sheeting around the back of his unit.
Balancing Wildlife and Pest Control
While short grass deters rats, it may prevent other species from thriving. Longer grass supports ground-nesting insects and provides shelter. It also retains moisture and offers food sources like dandelions for spring insects. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and the severity of the rat problem.
