Odour Cologne

We were advised to use Peppermint oil in the house to repel rats. Apparently rats dislike the strong smell and stay away. It seems worth a try and so I have sprinkled some around the house. The rats might avoid the traps but there is no avoiding the peppermint fragrance. I think it smells wonderful. Let's hope that the rats think otherwise. Unfortunately the fragrance fades after a few days so I will need to keep reapplying until the lime plaster is applied. Hopefully this will be in the next few weeks.

I searched the web to find out a bit more about using peppermint oil and I found this interesting article about natural rat repellants. I like the idea of using plants in the garden to repel rats - one to remember when we have a garden rather than a building site. CITRONELLA Cymbopogon nardus is a vigorous tropical grass from S.E. Asia, producing an oil that is essential for insect repellant, perfume, soap, food, drink and medicine. It isn't hardy in the UK but I guess you could grow it in a house or frost free conservatory. The curry plant Helichrysum italicum also has a strong smell and I imagine that this would work too.

I fould this mint plant in the reduced aisle of the supermarket this afternoon. I know one small plant probably won't make a great deal of difference but I brought it home and have placed it by the rear entrance to the house just to let the rats know that they are not welcome.

b.t.w. Today is Rat Appreciation Day - I should coco.

#strawbales #strawbalewoodlands #strawbalehouse #rats