Are Ants in the Garden Bad?
WouterWhether you like them or not, ants are a part of your garden’s ecosystem. They help scavenge the waste of other insects, fertilize the soil, and aerate the soil. They are also an important food source for birds.
When ants find aphids, they will move them around the plant to better sites. The process is called a mutualistic symbiosis. Ants also help keep sap-sucking insects out of the garden.
One way to get rid of ants is to place a sticky barrier on the plant. The barrier should be reapplied every two weeks.
Another effective method is to use organic horticultural oil spray. These sprays are safe for plants and will smother the insects. They also won’t harm beneficial insects. Some of the most common horticultural oils are EcoNeem, EcoOil, and Diatomaceous earth. These natural fine powders are safe for plants, birds, and mammals.
Alternatively, ants can be a nuisance if they leave a trail. They can also cause considerable damage to plants in a short amount of time. They are also good at detecting pest insects with their antennae.
If you’re considering removing ants from your garden, be sure to weigh their benefits against their drawbacks. If you have a small ant colony, you may want to let them live. However, if the ants are causing you problems, you may want to consider removing them.
One of the most interesting aspects of ants is that they can protect you from pest insects. They help scavenge the food of other insects. They also help speed up the decomposition of organic material.
