Do Ants Eat Young Plants?
WouterUsually, ants on plants are attracted to diseases or pests. However, there are cases where ants on plants can be beneficial to the ecosystem.
In fact, they play a vital role in the ecology of your garden. They help protect garden pests from harmful species, and also provide a food source for larger insects. In addition to their role as food source, ants are also important for reducing the number of smaller pests.
If you suspect that ants are causing problems in your garden, you’ll want to eliminate their source of food. To do this, you’ll need to use a bait to lure the insects to it. The bait should contain insects that the ants like. Once the ants are caught on the bait, they will feed on it until there are no nutrients left.
You can also try using a chemical ant powder to kill them. Check the label for specific directions before using. Also, wear gloves. If you use a chemical ant powder, be sure to check for warnings about using it on treated compost.
You can also try using organic sticky solutions to keep ants in check. These include barrier glues, tree wraps, and fruit tree grease bands.
Another common solution is to use a natural fine powder called diatomaceous earth. Diatomaceous earth is a mineral made from fossilized plankton. It’s harmless to birds and mammals, and it’s safe to use around plants and vegetables.
Another option is to use an organic horticultural oil spray. These are safe for organic gardens, and they smother the pest insects. The oil will also not harm beneficial insects.
