Rats will scurry away from your garden if you leave 1 kitchen item outside

You might not always catch sight of rats in your garden, but that doesn't mean they aren't there. In your garden, there may be some subtle signs hinting at their presence.

Fortunately, tackling the problem can be easier than you might think - and there's a good chance you already have something at home that can help deter them. There are numerous natural and wildlife-friendly methods to keep rats at bay, and using safe approaches is key to protecting your garden's ecosystem. Gardening experts at Yell have shared their top tips on banishing rats for good. Rats not only carry diseases, but they can also leave your garden looking untidy by burrowing into your lawn and damaging plants. That's why it's crucial to discourage them by using non-harmful methods.

While things like citronella oil and onions are commonly recommended, one method in particular stands out for being both accessible and effective.

Pungent food items such as garlic, onions, and vinegar are known to be unappealing to rats.

Vinegar, in particular, is a cost-effective way to keep pests at a distance and is easy to use in your garden.

Beyond food-based solutions, there are other practical steps you can take. For instance, keeping your lawn neatly trimmed helps eliminate potential hiding spots where rats might shelter.

Not only this, but plants such as mint and lavender are also believed to be natural rat deterrents, thanks to their strong scents.

Placing these plants in your garden could help create an environment rats prefer to avoid, meaning they will stay away.

If you don't have vinegar but do have onions, this is another easy way to deter the pests. Onions will irritate a rat's senses, especially their eyes and nose. Experts say you can place thin slices of the vegetable in key spots.

With a few simple changes, you can maintain a clean, healthy garden and discourage unwanted visitors - all without endangering the animals that share your outdoor space.