Alan Titchmarsh has urged gardeners to mow their lawns short as a key tactic to keep rats away this summer. The gardening expert explained that rats are furtive creatures that dislike short, open grass where they can be easily seen.
Why Short Grass Deters Rats
In a video for BBC Gardeners' World Magazine, Titchmarsh said: "Rats are furtive. They like cover, they like shelter - they do not like close mown grass where they can be seen. They much prefer it longer." He advised getting the mower out and cutting grass short, adding: "Cut it short, have a stripe or two if you want, and that way you can see. Look, no rats."
The UK rat population fluctuates between an estimated 10 million and 100 million. Rats can spread diseases to humans, primarily through urine, making them a serious health concern for gardeners.
Compost Heaps as Rat Havens
Titchmarsh identified compost heaps as a favourite rat habitat, calling them a "central heated house" due to the heat generated by rotting vegetation. To prevent rats nesting, he recommended ensuring the compost structure is solid. In his own garden, he uses "really strong wooden sides" and "steel sheeting right around the back."
Trade-Offs for Wildlife
While short grass deters rats, it can reduce habitat for other wildlife. Longer grass supports ground-nesting insects, holds moisture, and provides food sources like dandelions for spring insects. Titchmarsh acknowledged that the choice depends on the severity of the rat problem and personal preference.
