How to Get Rid of Ants in the Garden Soil: 6 Effective Ways

Introduction:

Ants are fascinating creatures, but when they invade your garden soil, they can become a nuisance. Not only do they disturb the aesthetics of your garden, but they can also harm your plants and cause damage to your precious green space. To maintain a healthy garden, it's crucial to address ant infestations promptly. In this article, we will explore several effective and updated methods to get rid of ants in your garden soil.

Ants disrupting soil in the Garden

Types of Ants:

There are numerous species of ants worldwide, each with its own characteristics and behaviors. Here are a few common types of ants you may encounter in your garden:

1) Carpenter Ants: 

Carpenter ants are larger ants known for tunneling into the wood. They do not eat wood but excavate it to create nests, potentially causing structural damage.

2) Fire Ants: 

Fire ants are reddish-brown ants that are notorious for their painful stings. They build large, visible mounds and can be aggressive when their nests are disturbed.

3) Argentine Ants: 

Argentine ants are small, brown ants that form extensive colonies. They are highly adaptable and often invade gardens and homes in search of food and shelter.

4) Pavement Ants: 

Pavement ants are small, dark-brown ants commonly found nesting in cracks and crevices of pavement or patios. They can also invade garden soil.

5) Odorous House Ants: 

Odorous house ants are small, dark ants that emit a distinctive odor when crushed. They commonly invade homes but can also forage in gardens.

What do Ants Eat?

Ants have diverse dietary preferences depending on their species and role within the colony. Here are some common food sources for ants:

1) Sugary Substances: 

Many ants are attracted to sugary substances like nectar, honeydew produced by aphids, and the sweet secretions of plant sap-sucking insects. They may also seek out sweet foods in human environments, such as spilled juices or fruits.

2) Protein-Rich Foods: 

Ants require protein for their growth and development. They may consume small insects, and dead animals, or even scavenges for protein food scraps.

3) Seeds and Grains: 

Certain ant species, such as harvester ants, have specialized workers that collect and store seeds and grains as their primary food source.

4) Fungi: 

Some ants have a mutualistic relationship with fungi. They cultivate fungal gardens by collecting organic matter and growing it as a food source within their nests.

5) Honeydew: 

Ants form symbiotic relationships with aphids and other sap-sucking insects. They "milk" these insects for their sugary honeydew excretions, which serve as a valuable food source for the ants.

Why You Should Get Rid of Ants in the Garden:

Ants may seem harmless, but they can have detrimental effects on your garden. Here's why you should take steps to eliminate them:

1) Plant Damage:

Certain ant species, such as the carpenter ant, can cause significant harm to plants. They excavate tunnels in wood and can weaken the structure of trees, shrubs, and wooden garden structures.

2) Aphid Farming:

Ants have a mutually beneficial relationship with aphids. They protect aphids from predators and transport them to plants, in return for the honeydew produced by aphids. This can lead to increased aphid populations, which damage plants by feeding on their sap.

3) Soil Disruption:

Ants create extensive networks of tunnels in the soil, which can disturb root systems and compromise the stability of plants.

4) Crop Protection:

If you grow vegetables or fruits in your garden, ants can be particularly problematic. They can damage crops by tunneling into fruits and spreading fungal infections.

Ants destroying crops

Methods to Get Rid of Ants in the Garden Soil:

1) Natural Remedies:

a) Diatomaceous Earth:

Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around ant trails and infested areas. This natural substance dehydrates ants, ultimately causing their demise. Be sure to reapply after rain.

b) Coffee Grounds:

Scatter used coffee grounds around the base of affected plants. The strong scent disrupts ant trails and may deter them from returning.

c) Cinnamon:

Sprinkle the cinnamon powder around entry points and areas with ant activity. The pungent aroma acts as a natural repellent.

d) Vinegar Solution:

Create a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Spray it directly on ants or along their trails. Vinegar disrupts their scent trails, disorienting the ants and deterring them from returning.

2) Pour Boiling Water into Ant's Nest:

For localized ant infestations, pouring boiling water directly into the ant's nest can be an effective method. Boiling water kills ants on contact and destroys the nest structure. Be cautious when handling boiling water to avoid burns, and ensure that the water reaches the heart of the nest for maximum effectiveness.

3) Organic Ant Baits:

For larger ant infestations, consider using organic ant baits. These baits contain substances that attract ants and deliver a slow-acting toxin to the colony. As the ants consume the bait and return to the nest, they spread it among the colony members, leading to their eventual elimination. Follow the instructions on the product carefully and place the baits near ant trails or infested areas.

4) Plant Herbs that Repel Ants:

Another proactive approach is to incorporate herbs that naturally repel ants into your garden. Here are a few examples:

a) Mint: 

Planting mint around your garden acts as a deterrent for ants due to its strong scent. Place potted mint plants near entrances or susceptible areas.

b) Tansy: 

Tansy is known for its ant-repellent properties. Plant it strategically around your garden to discourage ants from entering.

c) Lavender: 

The aromatic scent of lavender repels ants and many other insects. Plant lavender near garden entrances or use dried lavender sachets in problem areas.

5) Beneficial Nematodes:

Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms that can effectively control ant populations. These tiny organisms parasitize and kill ants, including those in the soil. Purchase nematodes specifically formulated for ants, mix them with water as per the instructions and apply the solution to the affected areas. Beneficial nematodes are safe for plants, humans, and other beneficial insects.

6) Professional Assistance:

If the infestation persists despite your best efforts, or if you prefer a hands-off approach, consider contacting a professional pest control service. They have access to a range of effective treatments and can tailor their approach to your specific ant problem.

Prevention Tips:

• Preventing ant infestations in the first place is key to maintaining a healthy garden. Here are some preventive measures to consider:
• Keep your garden tidy and free of debris that ants can use for nesting.
• Trim back vegetation that provides ants with easy access to your garden.
• Seal cracks and gaps in structures, as ants can use them to enter the garden.
• Remove food and water sources, such as spilled birdseed or standing water.
• Create physical barriers, such as gravel or copper tape, around susceptible plants to deter ant entry.

Conclusion:

Dealing with ants in your garden soil can be challenging, but with the right methods, you can effectively eliminate them and protect your plants. Remember to identify the ant species, try natural remedies first, and resort to pouring boiling water into nests, planting ant-repellent herbs, using organic baits, or seeking professional help for severe infestations. By implementing preventive measures, you can maintain a thriving garden free from ant intrusions, allowing your plants to flourish.