How to Get Rid of Ants in Plant Pots

Ants are unsightly and can be harmful to plants when they are present in plant pots. They can disturb the soil, damage vegetation and attract other pests. Getting rid of ants in plant pots is a necessary task if you want your plants to grow healthy and strong. Here are some effective ways to get rid of ants in plant pots.

Identify the Species of Ant

There are different species of ants, and each has its behavior and preferences. Identifying the species of ant in your plant pot will help you understand its behavior, and the effective way to eliminate them. Some ants prefer damp areas, while others prefer dry soil. The most common ant species that inhabit plant pots include pavement ants, odorous house ants, and carpenter ants.

Remove Ant Trails with Soap and Water

Soap and water are useful in removing ant trails in plant pots. Ants rely on pheromones to communicate, and once they leave a trail, other ants follow the trail to the source of food or water. Mix two tablespoons of liquid soap with a gallon of water and pour the solution in the plant pot. The soap will cut off the trail of pheromones, and ants will not find their way back. Repeat this process until they are all gone.

Use Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made from fossilized diatoms, a type of algae with natural insecticide properties. It is safe for plants, humans, and pets, making it an ideal product for getting rid of ants in plant pots. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant pot, creating a barrier that ants cannot cross. When ants walk through it, the powder dries out their outer layer, leading to death.

Use Bait Traps

Bait traps are an effective way of getting rid of ants in plant pots. Ant baits are composed of food that ants like to eat and a pesticide that kills them. Place the bait trap near the ant trail and wait for some time. Once the ants start feeding on the bait, they carry the pesticide along the trail, and it reaches the whole ant colony. This approach takes time but is useful in eliminating the whole colony of ants.

Conclusion

Ants are harmful to plants and should be dealt with immediately. Using the above methods, you can get rid of ants in plant pots and prevent them from coming back. Remember to identify the species of ant to use the right method of elimination.