Are Ants Bad For Plants?
WouterUsing ants to control pests can be beneficial. But ants can also be destructive, as they can chew their way into trees and flowerbeds, as well as eat leaves, stems, seeds and fruit. They can also attract other pests to your garden.
When it comes to ants, you’ll want to use methods that don’t involve toxic chemicals. Ants are important in the ecosystem. They feed on various insect pests, including aphids, mealybugs and small insects. They also provide a source of nutrition to other insects.
For a start, try to get rid of ants by removing a plant’s fruit or flower. You can also try to kill them with vinegar and water. You may even be able to use borax powder. You can sprinkle this directly onto the nest, and add a little sugar to make a bait.
Another ant control measure is to move the plant to a clean pot. You’ll also need to fill in any gaps.
One of the best ant control measures is to use diatomaceous earth. This is a natural, non-toxic powder that is safe for humans, animals and birds. You can place it around your garden, and ring the base of your pot.
You might also want to try making a homemade ant spray using one teaspoon of mild liquid soap and one liter of water. This should be enough to cover your plants. If you have a large pot, you’ll need double or triple the amount of water.
