Ants, scientifically known as formicidae, can become an unwelcome sight in gardens, especially when they invade lawns, orchards, or potted plants. While these tiny creatures contribute to the ecosystem, there are times when controlling their numbers is necessary to protect plants or prevent them from entering living spaces.
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How do you get rid of ants in your garden?
Here are practical, eco-friendly methods to reduce ants in the garden without harming beneficial wildlife:
- Vinegar: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and apply directly to colonies and high-traffic paths. Vinegar acts as a natural repellent, but use it sparingly to avoid stress to plants.
- Baking soda and sugar: Combine equal amounts baking soda and powdered sugar. Dust near anthills and along ant trails. Ants are attracted to the sugar and carry the baking soda back, disrupting the nest.
Ten natural remedies to deter ants around the garden
Ants can be repelled by certain substances and barriers that are safe for people and pets when used correctly. The following tips focus on non-toxic strategies that protect plants while keeping outdoor spaces pleasant.
- Copper barriers: Place copper strips around plants to create a metallic deterrent. Contact with copper can discourage ants from crossing the boundary.
- Chalk or talcum powder: Draw lines or sprinkle powder around protected areas. The texture is uncomfortable for ants and can deter their movement across treated zones.
Homemade tactics to prevent kitchen ants
These methods focus on reducing indoor attraction while remaining gentle on the environment.
- Enhance natural predators: Encourage beneficial insects such as ladybugs and certain parasitic wasps that feed on ants and their larvae. Bird feeders and fresh water in the garden can invite insectivorous birds that help keep ant populations in check.
- Nematodes: Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms that target ants. They can be purchased from garden centers and applied following product instructions to affected areas to disrupt ant colonies.
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- 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 adopting these strategies, ant populations can be managed in a way that protects plant health and preserves the balance of the local ecosystem.