If you’re looking to keep rats out of your garden naturally, this common plant is the perfect solution. It’s also easy to grow and has a lovely scent, making it a great addition to any garden.Angela Patrone Senior Lifestyle Reporter and Sophie Law Deputy Editor Spare Time
14:05, 26 Oct 2025
(Image: Paul Grace Photography Somersham via Getty Images)
Rats are a common nuisance in homes and gardens, causing structural damage, eating plants, and potentially spreading diseases. Signs of an infestation can include seeing or hearing rats, or finding their hair or droppings.
In search of a solution, Suzi Cox turned to the Gardening Hints and Tips Facebook page for advice on how to keep rats at bay. She posted: “Not so much gardening, however, any suggestions on how to keep rats out of the garden? Are there any plants that may stop them?” One plant that was frequently suggested in the comments was lavender.
Tracey Thompson advised, “Rats are repulsed by strong scents, so lavender works well to deter them.”
Linda Henry shared her experience: “Lavender. I have rats in my yard. I put a flower pot with lavender outside, and they never come near my back door now.”
Chuck Jarman added his endorsement: “Lavender, I planted these on the side of my house next to the garage and have not had one come in the garage since planting.”
Tom Wellard also recommended: “Lavender or highly scented herbs are reported to keep rats at bay in a garden.”
Gardeners advise growing lavender to ward off rats(Image: Getty)
Lavender is a fragrant herb known for its calming and relaxing properties. It’s also an effective rat deterrent, thanks to its strong and pleasant aroma that rats find off-putting, reports the Express.
The essential oils in lavender act as natural repellents for rats and other pests, such as mice, flies, and moths.
This hardy plant can shoot up quite high, boasting grey-green leaves and purple-blue flowers that burst into life from late spring to early summer.
It’s versatile enough to be potted, border-planted or bedded, and can even serve as a hedge or ground cover. Alternatively, you could scatter cuttings of the plant around your garden’s edges where rats might be drawn in.
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