Are Ants Bad For Fruit Trees?
WouterGenerally, ants are not bad for fruit trees. However, they can indirectly damage your trees. They will eat fruit, and sometimes even bring disease and other insects to your area. They may also burrow into the bark, causing a lot of damage.
Fruit trees can also be attacked by sap-feeding insects. These insects can reduce the fruit set and vigor of the trees, and they spread plant viruses. They also attract sooty mold colonies. These colonies interfere with photosynthesis and reduce the tree’s ability to produce fruit.
Ants may also attack trees directly. They can be attracted to rotten wood or honeydew. Honeydew is an important food source for ants, and they will protect it from predators.
If you suspect that ants are infesting your tree, there are some methods that can help you get rid of them. You can use insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, or baits. These methods can kill existing ants and discourage new ones from coming.
You can also use tree collars. These collars are made of a sticky material that prevents ants from climbing up the tree. They can be purchased at Walmart or from a local garden center. You should start with the collars at ground level, and work your way up the trunk.
You can also use ant nematodes. Ant nematodes are insecticides that are able to kill ants. They can also be used to kill ant nests.
Keeping a close eye on your trees for signs of ants is a good way to avoid damage from ants. You may also need to trim back the branches on the tree if you notice ants tumbling around the trunk.
