Ants (or formicidae, in its scientific name) can be a nuisance presence in our gardens, especially when they invade lawns, orchards or our plants. Although these tiny creatures play an important role in the ecosystem, sometimes it is necessary to control their populations to prevent damage to our plants or even sneaking into our homes.
How do you get rid of ants in your garden?
Here are some tricks to remove ants from the garden in an efficient and environmentally friendly way:
- Vinegar: Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and spray directly on anthills and areas with high ant density. Vinegar acts as a natural repellant, but be careful not to apply too much as it can harm some plants.
- Baking soda and sugar: Mix equal amounts of baking powder and powdered sugar. Sprinkle the mixture near the anthill and ant paths. The ants will be attracted to the sugar and carry the baking soda back into the nest, causing a chemical reaction that will kill them.
- Copper: Place copper strips around the plants you want to protect. Contact with copper produces a small electric shock to the ants, which deters them from crossing the barrier.
- Chalk or talcum powder: Draw chalk lines or sprinkle talcum powder around the areas you want to protect. Ants usually do not overcome these obstacles as they are unpleasant to walk on.
- Attracts natural predators: It encourages the presence of beneficial insects such as ladybugs and parasitic bees that feed on ants and their larvae. You can also attract insectivorous birds by placing feeders and waterers in the garden.
- nematodes: These tiny microscopic worms are natural enemies of ants. You can buy special nematodes for ant control in specialized stores and apply them to the affected areas, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Keep the garden clean: Avoid leaving food scraps or rubbish in the garden as it attracts ants.
- Check irrigation: Ants often nest in damp areas, so proper watering can help reduce their presence.
By implementing these strategies, you will be able to control the ant population in your garden in an efficient and environmentally friendly way, ensuring a healthy and balanced space for your plants and the local ecosystem.