Mice Control in Gardens and Homes: Plant-Based Solutions
Introduction
Mice can be a nuisance in both gardens and homes. They can munch on plants, leaving gardeners frustrated and disappointed. However, there are ways to deter mice using plants that they dislike or that even repel them.
Plants That Mice Dislike
Most gardeners worry about larger pests like deer and raccoons damaging their plants. However, mice can also cause significant damage, especially to bulbs that are planted in the fall and bloom in the spring.
Some bulb plants that are safe from mice include:
- Daffodils
- Snowdrops
- Glory of the Snow (Chionodoxa)
- Fritillaria
- Siberian Wood Squill
- Camassia
- Grape Hyacinth (Muscari)
Mice may nibble on allium bulbs, but they tend to avoid tulip, crocus, iris, and most types of hyacinth.
Plants That Repel Mice
If you have a mouse problem in your home or garden, consider growing plants that will keep them away. This is a humane and effective way to control mouse populations and avoid using traps.
Indoor and Outdoor Plants That Repel Mice:
- Catnip: Catnip not only repels mice, but it may also attract cats to your garden, which are natural mouse hunters.
- Herbs: Most herbs repel mice, especially mint and lavender.
- Garlic and Onions: Mice dislike the strong scent of garlic and onions.
Natural Ways to Protect Plants from Mice
In addition to planting repellent plants, there are other natural ways to protect your garden plants from mice:
- Blood Meal: Adding blood meal to the soil provides nutrients and deters rodents from digging up buried bulbs.
- Cayenne Pepper: Mice hate the taste and smell of cayenne pepper. Sprinkle it on bulbs or plants to keep mice away.
- Mouse Deterrent Products: Your local garden store may sell specific products designed to deter mice.
Additional Tips
- Keep your garden clean and free of debris, as this can attract mice.
- Seal up any holes or cracks in your home or garden that mice could use to enter.
- Store food in airtight containers to prevent mice from being attracted to it.
- If you have a pet cat, let it outside to hunt mice in your garden.
- Consider using humane mouse traps if necessary.
By following these tips and using plants that mice dislike or repel, you can effectively control mouse populations in your home and garden naturally and humanely.
