What are the Tiny Ants on my Tomato Plants?

It’s a common sight to see ants crawling around tomato plants. These tiny creatures can be seen marching up and down the stems, and around the base of the plant. But why are they there, and are they harmful to the tomato plants?

The Types of Ants Found on Tomato Plants

Before we discuss the impact of ants on tomato plants, we need to understand that not all types of ants are harmful. In fact, some of them can be beneficial to the plant. The most commonly found ants on tomato plants are the field ants, pavement ants, and carpenter ants. Field ants are usually harmless and are found on plants simply looking for food. Pavement ants are attracted to sweet secretions from the plant and are also harmless. Carpenter ants, on the other hand, are not harmless.

The Impact of Ants on Tomato Plants

As mentioned earlier, some types of ants can be beneficial while others can be harmful. Beneficial ants can help by aerating the soil and feeding on other pests that cause damage to the plant. However, harmful ants, such as carpenter ants, can harm your tomato plant by burrowing into the stems and roots, causing structural damage which can lead to the death of the plant.

How to Identify Harmful Ants on Tomato Plants

If you notice ant activity on your tomato plants, it's important to identify the type of ant to determine whether it's a potential threat. Carpenter ants are usually large, and their presence on the plant can be an indication of structural damage. If you see sawdust near the base of the plant or notice that the stems are being chewed on, it's time to take action.

How to Get Rid of Ants on Tomato Plants

If you've identified ants on your tomato plants, it's important to take swift action to prevent your plant from damage. Here are some ways to get rid of ants:

Clean the garden bed and remove any debris that may be attracting ants.

Use a natural deterrent such as diatomaceous earth, which is harmless to plants but can kill ants.

Use a homemade ant bait by mixing equal parts of baking soda and powdered sugar. Sprinkle the mixture on the ant's path, and they will carry it back to their colony, killing them.

If the problem persists, contact a pest control professional.

The Bottom Line

Ants on tomato plants can be beneficial or harmful, and it's important to identify the type of ant on your plant to determine potential damage. If you suspect carpenter ants or notice signs of structural damage, it's important to take swift action to prevent further damage to your plant. Use natural deterrents, homemade ant baits, or contact a pest control professional to get rid of ants effectively.