Pests can be hard to deter but you can make them think twice before coming into your patch

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Rats, mice and squirrels too are among garden visitors lots of us shudder at the thought of. These mammal visitors are hard to keep out, and if they decide they like your garden, hard to get rid of too.

But there are ways to do this naturally, without resorting to traps or chemicals that would see them killed. Experts have revealed their secrets to the Express, and one in particular is a hot tip.

Experts at international retailer Primrose have explained that food sources are the first place to start. Rats will be attracted to things like compost bins, so make sure yours are secure, and bird feeders can often be mammal feeders unwittingly.

READ MORE: Nine garden plants that could cost you thousands in fines

Squirrel proof options are best, they say. Fallen seed and nuts can also attract pests, while fallen fruit from trees is also worth clearing up.

Keeping grass short, vegetation trimmed, and places rats and mice could shelter blocked off can also help. And essential oils like peppermint oil, citronella and eucalyptus may also help to deter unwanted visitors in areas think they may be.

But one kitchen staple that could also help is chili pepper. Similarly to essential oils, the experts said: “Rats’ high sense of smell means they can't stand hot pepper or anything very spicy like it”.

To make homemade natural rat repellent spray, start by mixing cayenne pepper or chilli flakes with water. Heat the mixture vigorously to infuse the chilli, then allow to cool - the longer the solution is left, the more potent the chilli will be.

Fence Post Stakes For those who have used chilli flakes, sieve them out. Add a little castile soap (which is biodegradable) and pour it into a spray bottle, and then spray liberally to areas where there is evidence of rats.