How to Get Rid of Ants Living in Potted Plants

Ants are quite common in the garden and can often be found living in or around potted plants. However, when ants start to inhabit your plants, it can become a nuisance and potentially damage the plant’s roots. Here are some effective techniques for getting rid of ants in your potted plants:

1. Use Sticky Traps

Sticky traps, typically used for catching crawling insects like spiders and cockroaches, can also be effective against ants living in potted plants. Place the traps around the base of the pot and any nearby areas where you have seen ants. The sticky surface will trap the ants and prevent them from reaching your plant.

2. Remove the Top Layer of Soil

If you have noticed multiple ant hills around your potted plants, you can remove the top layer of soil to eliminate the ants living inside. Carefully remove the plant from the pot and shake off any excess soil. Then, remove the top layer of soil and replace it with fresh soil, making sure not to compact the soil too much when replanting the plant.

3. Create a Barrier with Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural and non-toxic substance made from the fossilized remains of marine organisms. It can be sprinkled around the base of the pot to create a barrier that ants cannot cross. The powder will stick to the ants' exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die.

4. Use Citrus Peels or Essential Oils

Ants are averse to the smell of citrus, so using citrus peels or essential oils like lemon or orange can help deter them from entering your potted plants. Apply a few drops of essential oil onto a cotton ball and place it around the base of the pot. Alternatively, you can place citrus peels around the base of the plant.

5. Use Vinegar or Baking Soda

Vinegar and baking soda can also be used to kill ants living in potted plants. Pour a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water into a spray bottle and spray the affected plant and surrounding areas. The acidic properties of the vinegar will kill the ants. Similarly, a mixture of baking soda and water can be poured into the ant hill to kill the ants.

Conclusion

Ants are a common problem in potted plants, but with these effective techniques, you can remove them from your plants and prevent them from returning. Remember to always use non-toxic methods if possible and to take care not to damage your plants while removing the ants.