Rats rely on a highly sensitive sense of smell, and certain scents can overwhelm them, prompting the rodents to leave the area where the odour originates. Pest control specialists at Critter Control say that specific plants can help "keep rats away for good."
Garlic and onions as deterrents
Garlic, whose pungent aroma many people find appetising, is described by experts as "incredibly abrasive to rats." Gardeners who grow their own produce may find that adding garlic to the plot encourages rats to seek food elsewhere. For those who do not wish to grow garlic or lack the space, placing bulbs around flower beds can achieve the same result.
Onions work in a similar way, as "rats despise the smell." They are straightforward to cultivate and provide a convenient kitchen supply, but growing them is not necessary to benefit from their repellent properties. Simply positioning a few slices of raw onion outdoors around the property can help "drive rats far from your property."
Lavender's powerful fragrance
Lavender, a purple herb valued for its appearance and aroma, also acts as a deterrent. Rats will "stay far away" because lavender is "one of the many scents that the nuisance rodents can't stand." The plant's powerful fragrance prevents rats from detecting potential food sources in the garden, making the area of no interest to them.
