18 February 2024 , 10:30
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Whether you think they're adorable or can't stand the sight of them - there's no denying cats can wreak havoc on your garden.
If you're tired of your beautiful blooms being used as a litter tray, or keep finding dead rodents on your lawn - you may want to invest in some repellents. Many gardeners lay chicken wire flat against the soil before planting a flower bed, as this can be uncomfortable for cats to walk over.
But, there is a much simpler way to a cat-free garden, using a herb that has earned the title of the 'scaredy cat plant'. Experts say the furry creatures will 'run a mile' if they pick up the scent.
Suzanne Hall from LoveTheGarden says mothballs are often recommended to get rid of cats - but they're highly toxic and potentially harmful to children. Instead, she urges gardeners to plant Coleus Canina.
"This pungent herb is said to repel many animals, including felines," she said. "However, it also doesn’t smell particularly alluring to humans, particularly when it's disturbed, so it's probably best for quieter areas of the garden."
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You can purchase Coleus Canina in seed or plant form from a slew of retailers and garden centres, but may have to wait until the weather has improved. For example, Dobbies is selling six 'jumbo plug plants' for £12.99 online - but they won't be dispatched until the end of April.
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According to the Express, planting lavender and rosemary can also make sure cats keep their distance, and keeps your garden smelling fresh. Hall also suggests adding ground black pepper to hot water in a spray bottle and spritzing your plants.
Hundreds of users took to the comments section to praise the advice, with one user stating: "[I] want to order all of those plants as my neighbour has got five cats and [they're] always lurking about and making a mess on my grass and conifers."
Another wrote: "Thank you very much for your advice, i will try them!" While a third joked the best solution is to 'buy a dog'.