Can Ants Nests Kill Plants?

Those who have had problems with ants in their gardens may wonder if ants nests kill plants. Ants are beneficial to gardens because they can be used to protect plants from predators and help with pollination. They also help to aerate soil.

Several types of ants are active in gardens. These include Argentine, wood, and pharaoh ants. They feed on caterpillars, wireworms, mites, and small insects.

They can also damage plant roots. Ants are also known to spread weed seeds. They can also eat fruit and destroy plants.

Ants are also attracted to sweet nectar. Honeydew waste is also an important food source for ants. Several species of ants are known to pollinate flowers. They also provide protection for aphids.

In order to prevent ants from feeding on your plants, you can try one of the following. Whether you decide to use a commercial pesticide or a natural pesticide, it’s important to understand the active ingredients.

Boric acid and botanical pyrethrins are two examples of natural pesticides. These work by disrupting ant pheromone trails. This can cause them to disorient and starve.

Another natural pesticide is diatomaceous earth. Diatomaceous earth is a chalk-like substance. When it comes into contact with ants, it enters their exoskeletons. It also kills ants on contact. Diatomaceous earth is food-grade and can be applied to the soil around ant nests. The safest way to apply diatomaceous earth is to use an applicator bulb.

If you have a plant that has been infected with ants, you may want to repot the plant. The old potting soil may have been attracted to the ants. You can also use a natural pesticide such as borax. If you have a large ant colony, you may want to consider hiring an exterminator. Exterminators are professionals who can remove ants from your garden safely. They may also use special equipment to prevent damage to your plants.