January is a busy month for garden pests, particularly rats and mice. But there are three flowers that can help deter the rodents from entering your home
As temperatures continue to drop and food sources become increasingly scarce, January can be a busy month for garden pests. This is particularly bad news for those with a fear of rodents, as rats and mice become more prevalent.
Experts at Pests UK have noted that rats are often attracted to warm compost heaps and under-porch areas where they can nest in January. A female rat can give birth to around six litters a year, each litter containing between six and 13 pups.
Both rats and mice are also drawn to leftover food sources around the home. During winter, this often includes seeds, nuts and other protein-rich foods left out to help birds through the colder weather. Pest UK states: “January is typically a slow month for pest control.
“Insect problems are not as prevalent, except for bedbugs which are not a seasonal pest. The most common pests in January are rodents, such as rats, mice and also squirrels.”
Fantastic Pest Control also warns that mice can cause particular issues around the house due to their tendency to chew on furniture, walls, cables, and pipes. They suggest sealing up holes and leaving out traps and poison to keep them at bay.
However, there are three flowers that can help deter mice from entering your home. It’s said that rodents avoid the smell of eucalyptus, lavender and mint.
Eucalyptus is regarded as the “safest” choice and has been proven to be a powerful repellent. Households can create their own eucalyptus oil spray by combining two teaspoons of eucalyptus oil with water and a couple of drops of detergent.
This solution can then be applied throughout the property, especially in areas with a “high chance” of mice entry, such as drains, wall cavities and skirting boards. Specialists recommend repeating this process weekly for optimal results.
Alternatively, introducing lavender into your property not only minimises the risk of a mouse infestation but is frequently used to alleviate anxiety and enhance sleep quality. Households can place lavender oil on cotton wool balls and position them at mouse hotspots.
Fantastic Pest Control advises: “Carefully pour 8 to 10 drops of lavender oil on each cotton ball. Following that, place the cotton balls near possible entry points of mice. Leave them there until the scent is gone and repeat the process again if required.”
Mint, specifically spearmint (mentha spicata), can be positioned in small containers around the property. If you have a garden, you can cultivate your own mint to discourage the mice.
Another natural deterrent for mice is garlic, though it is considered ineffective in large, open areas. It also requires regular replacement to preserve the odour that repels the rodents.
Specialists suggest positioning cloves at potential entry points for rodents around your property. Another option is to blend garlic with water and spray it around your home.
However, be aware that garlic is extremely toxic to household pets such as cats and dogs.
