How To Keep Rats Out of Garden
You’ve meticulously planted your cucumbers. You’ve dutifully fertilized your tomatoes. You’ve trellised your peas.
And now, just when it’s time to start enjoying the (literal) fruits of your labor, you’ve got an unexpected problem on your hands: rats. Lots of them, and all of them ready and eager to start chowing down on the produce you’ve poured your heart and soul into.
If you’re wondering how to keep rats out of the garden, you’re not the only one. Here in Claremont, CA, we know that growing a garden is a labor of love, but it’s still a labor.
Don’t let your hard work go to waste by letting rats feast on your fruits and veggies. Instead, follow these tips (and consider hiring rat prevention services) to get rid of rodents fast.
Why Are There Rats in the Garden?
Did you know that a single rat can give birth to up to 18 pups in just one litter? Their fast reproduction rate means rats can set up shop and multiply faster than you might expect.
And with their climbing skills and sharp teeth, rats are no strangers to gardens in Claremont, especially as the temperature cools down in the fall. Your lush, inviting garden may offer shelter, food sources (like fruit, nuts, or birdseed), and warm compost piles, making it the perfect rodent Airbnb.
If you live near The Claremont Colleges or the Foothills, your property is already in some prime rat territory. Rats are attracted to nearby vegetation, food waste, and outdoor clutter; in other words, they like to be where people are. Where there are lots of humans, there are lots of rats.
That doesn’t mean you need to simply tolerate them in your garden, however. The first step to keeping them out is understanding why they’re coming in, which is what we’ll tackle in this post.
Simple Garden Rat Control Methods & Tools
You can make your garden far less attractive to rats with just a few adjustments. These tips will help you nip the problem in the bud (pun intended):
Eliminate Food Sources
Rats won’t frequent your garden if they can’t find any food. To avoid problems with rodents, pick ripe fruit and vegetables as soon as they're ready. Avoid leaving pet food outside overnight., and secure trash bins with tight lids.
Declutter the Area
Next, clean up. Remove piles of wood, leaves, and other debris where rats can hide. Also, prune shrubs and keep grass neatly trimmed to reduce shelter options.
Use Deterrents
Install raised garden beds with metal mesh liners to prevent rats from taking shelter, and consider incorporating peppermint oil or spicy chili flakes in your garden. Rats dislike strong smells!
The best deterrent for rodents, of course, is you. Spend as much time as you can in your garden, as your presence and smell will help scare rats away. If this isn’t feasible, you can also install motion sensor lights or solar repellers that can help keep rodents at bay.
Seal Entry Points
How are rats getting into your garden in the first place? Walk around your yard and look for holes in fences or gaps in sheds. Rats only need an opening the size of a quarter to squeeze through!
When To Call a Professional Rat Prevention Service in Claremont, CA
Sometimes, DIY methods aren’t enough to handle a serious rat problem. If you notice signs like droppings, gnaw marks, or chewed plants despite your efforts, it’s time to reach out to professional rat prevention services.
At ProCraft Pest Control, we specialize in helping Claremont homeowners secure their gardens and homes from these sneaky intruders. Our experts use safe, environmentally friendly solutions to protect your property. Plus, we offer tailored prevention plans to make sure the rats don’t come scurrying back.
If you're ready to reclaim your garden, don't wait for things to get worse. When you need reliable rat prevention services, reach out to ProCraft Pest Control. Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation.
Your rat-free outdoor oasis is just a call away!
Did You Know?
Most rats are nocturnal, so just because you don’t see them doesn’t mean they aren’t there. And don’t let their small size fool you: a single rat can consume 20-30 grams of food in one day! If your garden’s veggies have bite marks or your birdseed keeps mysteriously disappearing, you may have some unexpected guests sticking around at night.
FAQ
How do I know if I have rats in my garden?
Look for signs like droppings, chewed fruits or vegetables, burrows in the soil, or nests in outdoor clutter. Rats are also often active at dusk and dawn.
Can I keep rats out without harming them?
Absolutely! Methods like removing food, sealing holes, and using strong scents like peppermint are humane ways to deter rats.
Can rats harm my plants?
Yes. Rats may chew on fruits, vegetables, and even bark, potentially damaging your garden over time.
How much does it cost to hire rat prevention services?
It depends on the severity of your infestation. Give us a call at ProCraft Pest Control for personalized pricing and plans.
What areas do you serve?
We proudly help residents in Claremont, CA, and the surrounding neighborhoods secure their gardens and homes from all types of pests.
