Gardeners are facing a real nightmare with rats and mice these pests not only devour crops and leave droppings, but they also carry diseases and can hide in the most unexpected places. Their rapid reproduction rate is alarming; a rodent’s gestation period is just three weeks, with up to 14 offspring per litter and the potential for a female to have 10 litters annually.
If you spot any signs of these unwelcome guests in your garden, immediate action is crucial to prevent an infestation. Prevention is always better than cure, and there are natural ways to keep rodents at bay.
However, it’s important to be aware that while some plants and crops can deter rats and mice, others may inadvertently attract them, leading to potential problems in your home, reports the Express.
Pumpkins, for instance, are a particular favourite of these pests. Pest Control East London warns: “If there are rats and mice in your area, they can eat your Halloween pumpkins.
“They love pumpkins and can’t get enough of them. They will happily munch on them. Pumpkins are a favourite food for chipmunks, squirrels, mice and rats. They will attract these pests.”
Even pumpkin seeds are a hit with mice and rats, being a nutritious snack packed with protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals.
Pests UK highlighted a seasonal problem, noting that rats and mice are drawn to pumpkins. They said: “Rodents such as rats and mice will enjoy feasting on pumpkins, especially if they’re carved and open to reveal the delicious fruit inside.
“Rats and mice aren’t particularly fussy when it comes to food – they will eat the flesh and seeds of pumpkins. Pumpkins placed outside can lure rodents to your home, which increases the risk of an infestation in or around your property.”
Teo Spengler, a gardening enthusiast, recounted her own troubles with rodents and her pumpkin patch to Gardening Know How. She managed to grow her pumpkins rapidly and significantly larger, only to encounter a severe nuisance rats.
One morning, Teo discovered that rats had not only feasted on her pumpkins but left gaping holes in two out of the six, despite being protected by netting.