THE onset of warmer days are welcome by all, but there are some pesky visitors the sunny days can bring out.
Rats are not only a health hazard for humans but run the risk of sneaking into your home in the search of food.
It might be tempting to reach for rat poison to stop those annoying visitors, but it's a toxic option and can cause harm to other animals, such as beloved pets.
The solution to keep the annoying rodents at bay can not only be a simple one, it also won't break the bank.
Stopping rats in their tracks is as easy as spreading some onions in your garden.
Rats absolutely loathe the smell of onions so cutting up a few slices and spreading them around your garden, especially at the entry points they're using to get into your property, will help keep them at bay.
This a great, natural option and is also cheap because you can pick up an onion from Tescofor just around 12p.
Onions are so powerful in stopping the ratty nuisances because they are “a nemesis of rats,” according to experts at Buzz Boss.
“It's a powerful rat repellent because of its pungent smell and taste,” the experts told The Mirror.
If you want to have handy access to the vegetable, even planting an onion plant in your garden is also an effective way to stop rats.
Other plants which also work include, lavender, chrysanthemums and black pepper.
But if you don't have a green thumb, there are plenty of other simple hacks which are affordable options, including garlic.
“Rodents hate the strong smell of garlic,” Juanita Schulze, a gardening expert from David’s Garden Seeds told Flying Eze last year.
“Garlic does not come from seeds, but get some garlic bulbs and plant those in your garden to keep rodents away.”;
Juanita added: “Another garlic tip is to chop garlic finely and boil in water. Then strain the garlic pieces out and put the garlic water in a spray bottle.
“Spray the bottoms of your plants to keep the rodents away. Spread chopped garlic around the outside of your garden.”;
If you're not sure whether rats have infested your outdoor space, there are plenty of signs to look out for.
These include droppings, bite marks, damaged plants and even a scent trail — yes, rats have a pungent smell, similar to urine and sweat, that can linger in the air.
Keep pests out all summer
IF you want to ensure that your home is pest free this summer, here's what you need to know.
Hornets and wasps – hate the smell of peppermint oil so spraying this liberally around your patio or balcony can help to keep them at bay.
Moths – acidic household white vinegar is effective for deterring moths. Soak some kitchen roll in vinegar and leave it in your wardrobe as a deterrent.
Flying ants – herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, mint, chilli pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cloves, or garlic act as deterrents.
Mosquitoes – plants, herbs and essential oil fragrances can help deter mozzies inside and out. Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.
