How Do Ants Damage Plants?
WouterSeveral species of ants are useful and beneficial to your garden. They help break down organic matter and recycle nutrients back into the soil. In addition, they provide protection for aphids, a common pest. They also serve as a source of pollination.
Ants can also cause damage to your garden. They are known to eat the stems of plants and eat honeydew, a sticky substance produced by aphids. They also disturb the soil and make it dry. The damage can be minimal or extensive, depending on the species and species of ants.
One of the ant’s most important jobs is to aerate the soil. They do this by digging large tunnels under the soil. This helps the plants to absorb more nutrients.
Ants also carry honeydew back to their nests. This substance is a great source of food for ants. It also has the power to cause black sooty mold to form on plants.
If you have a large number of ants in your garden, you may be able to eliminate them by moving the plant to a shaded location or placing a bait near a water source. You may also want to put a fan on the plant to circulate the air.
You may also want to try a homemade ant spray. This is similar to a boric acid spray, but is safer for garden plants. You can make your own by mixing one teaspoon of mild liquid soap and one liter of water. You should test it on one leaf first to ensure that you’re not applying too much.
