Gardeners are being warned that neglecting a simple task could lead to a pest infestation and costly repairs.
Leaving fallen fruit to rot under trees can attract rats, damage lawns, and lead to weed and sapling growth, according to James Lewis, an expert gardener at MyBuilder.com.
Mr Lewis said: “Gardens can be a lot of work in summer when plants and lawns are growing fast and you’re watering often.
“So it’s understandable that people may neglect to collect fallen fruit when it seems like an unnecessary job.”
However, he explained that rotting fruit can “attract not only wasps and hornets, but also rats.
“This could lead to having pest control in – not a cheap job.”
Rats are drawn to the smell of decaying fruit, and pest removal typically starts at around £100.
Rotting fruit can also spread disease to trees, encourage weed growth, and kill grass by blocking sunlight and air.
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