Gardeners are being advised to use cayenne pepper or chilli flakes as a natural deterrent against rats and mice this winter. Unlike many pests, rodents remain active during the colder months, prompting experts to recommend a simple, humane solution.
According to Primrose, a gardening retailer, rats and mice have a keen sense of smell and cannot tolerate hot pepper or spicy substances. A homemade spray can be made by mixing cayenne pepper or chilli flakes with water, heating the mixture to infuse the chilli aroma, and allowing it to cool. The longer it steeps, the more potent the repellent becomes.
After cooling, any chilli flakes should be strained out, and a small amount of biodegradable castile soap added. The liquid can then be decanted into a spray bottle and applied generously to areas where rodent activity has been spotted. The spray is also said to deter other pests, such as squirrels and rabbits.
Alternatively, essential oils like peppermint, citronella, and eucalyptus can be used. Experts recommend placing a few drops of these oils in their pure form around known rat hotspots, as rodents find the scents unpleasant. This natural approach offers a safer alternative to poison or traps.
