Do Ants Kill Flowers?
WouterWhether you are growing your own fruit, vegetables, flowers, or even plants from seeds, you have probably encountered ants in your garden. Ants are a part of the ecosystem, and are a natural predator and food source for larger insects, birds, and lizards. They also contribute to the soil’s health by breaking down organic matter and aerating the soil. However, they can also damage your plants.
One common mistake people make is assuming that black ants will only damage their garden. In reality, ants can actually be beneficial to your garden. They help protect your aphids, and they can kill pest insects that attack your plants.
Some ants, such as the common red ant, play a vital role in garden ecosystems. They feed on sweet nectar, and they also provide a food source for larger insects. But ants can also damage your plants.
If you notice ants forming mounds on your plants, you can kill them by sprinkling hot water over them. You can also smother them with organic horticultural oil spray. However, you must be careful not to harm beneficial insects.
Ants are not the only pests that can ruin the aesthetics of your cut flowers. Aphids can also cause considerable damage in a short amount of time. These insects suck sugary juices from plants, and they can also cause black sooty mould to form.
You can also discourage ants from nesting in your plants by applying organic sticky solutions. You can make sticky traps out of items from your kitchen. You can also plant ant repellent plants in your flower bed.
