What is the name of the plant that repels mice? - briefly
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is widely recognized as an effective natural mouse deterrent. Its potent aroma disrupts rodents’ sensory perception, causing them to avoid areas where the plant is present.
What is the name of the plant that repels mice? - in detail
The plant most commonly cited for deterring rodents is catnip (Nepeta cataria). Its essential oil contains nepetalactone, a compound that triggers an aversive response in mice while attracting felines. When nepetalactone is released into the environment, mice experience sensory irritation that reduces their willingness to explore or nest in treated areas.
Key characteristics
- Botanical classification: Family Lamiaceae, herbaceous perennial.
- Active ingredient: Nepetalactone, a volatile iridoid monoterpene.
- Mode of action: Binds to olfactory receptors in the mouse’s nasal epithelium, producing a repellent effect without toxicity.
- Application methods: Fresh leaves crushed and placed in corners, dried herb sachets, or commercial oil sprays diluted to 1–2 % concentration.
- Effectiveness: Laboratory studies show a 70–90 % decrease in mouse activity within a 1‑meter radius of the source for up to 48 hours. Field reports confirm reduced gnawing damage in grain storage sheds and garden beds when the plant is maintained around perimeter walls.
Cultivation and maintenance
- Plant in full sun to partial shade; tolerates a wide pH range (6.0–8.0).
- Water moderately; excessive moisture encourages fungal growth that can diminish volatile release.
- Harvest leaves before flowering for maximum nepetalactone content; dry at 35 °C to preserve potency.
Safety considerations
- Non‑toxic to humans and most domestic animals; however, cats may become hyper‑stimulated and exhibit rolling or vocalization.
- Not effective against rats, which show limited sensitivity to nepetalactone.
Alternative botanicals
- Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) – contains pulegone; strong odor repels mice but is hepatotoxic in high doses.
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – aromatic oil provides mild deterrence; requires frequent reapplication.
- Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) – oil vapors discourage rodents; may irritate respiratory passages in sensitive individuals.
For sustained rodent control, integrate catnip with proper sanitation, structural sealing, and, when necessary, mechanical traps. Combining botanical repellents with environmental management yields the most reliable reduction in mouse presence.