When it comes to gardening sometimes there can be uninvited guests entering our outdoor space. 

We are talking about pests including slugs, snails and let’s not forget rats who can be a nuisance to get rid of. 

However, one expert has thankfully come to the rescue with their advice. 

Robert Collins, an expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk, the UK’s leading trades matching site, has spoken exclusively to the Express and shared how you can stop rats from entering your garden. 

Let’s take a look at the tips more in detail and even better there is one common ingredient that most people in the UK have in their kitchen. 

Essential oils

Several essential oils can be used to deter rats from your garden. 

Collins advised: “This is one of the safest and most effective natural ways to get rid of rats. Peppermint, Eucalyptus, and Citronella are great examples of essential oils that are brilliant at deterring rats. 

“The strong smell of these oils can easily dissuade rats. Simply mix your chosen essential oil in a spray bottle.

The mixture should consist of one part essential oil and nine parts water. Then, spray this mixture around the edges of your garden and in any space that you may suspect is a habitat for the rats.

Onions

According to Collins, rats don’t like onions. 

He said: “Just the scent of an onion is one of the best non-toxic ways to get rid of rats from your garden. 

“The pungent smell of onions can deter rats and prevent them from wanting to enter the garden. Cut a few onions into slices and spread these slices around the edge of your garden or close to any visible entry points.”

You can pick an onion from your local supermarket for just 12p in Tesco or 15p from Waitrose. 

Steel wool

You can use steel wool to block the access points to your garden. 

The pro suggested: “If there are any visible access points where you know the rats are entering and exiting from, stuff some steel wool into these gaps. 

“Steel wool is a great barrier as it’s difficult for rats to nibble at steel wool. They will eventually give up when they find they can’t get through it.”

How to seal up entry points for rats?

“The best way to seal entry points for rats is with steel wool,” Collins said. “Fill the gaps with steel wool and then put caulk around the steel wool to ensure it stays in place.

“Alternatively, you can use spray foam to keep it in place. If there are cracks or openings in your walls, apply caulking. This will create an airtight seal that protects the home from pests.

“In some cases, the chimney may be an entry point. If so, install chimney grates to protect the entry point. This is a job best left to professionals as it can be difficult and dangerous to work on the chimney.

“Check any vents and seal these with mouse mesh to prevent access. If there are any gaps in your roof, seal these with sealants, roof tar, and tiles.

“Whenever you seal a gap to prevent rats from accessing your property, it’s important to always use metal. Rats can chew through most materials.”