How to Keep Ants Out of Outside Potted Plants

Potted plants are a beautiful addition to any outdoor space, but they can also attract ants. Ants may build nests in the soil of potted plants, and they may also be attracted to the sweet nectar produced by flowers. While ants can help with pollination, their presence in potted plants can also be problematic. Ants can damage roots and leaves, and they can also attract other pests like aphids. Fortunately, there are several ways to keep ants out of outside potted plants.

1. Keep the Area Clean

One of the simplest ways to keep ants out of potted plants is to keep the area clean. Remove any fallen leaves or debris around the pots, and make sure that there are no food scraps or spills nearby. Ants are attracted to food sources, and a clean area will make it less likely that they will find their way into the pots.

2. Use Ant-Repellent Mulch

Another way to keep ants out of potted plants is to use ant-repellent mulch. There are several types of mulch that repel ants, including cedar, cypress, and eucalyptus. These types of mulch have a strong scent that ants find unpleasant, and they will avoid the area around the pots. Simply add a layer of ant-repellent mulch around the base of the pots, and ants will be less likely to climb up into the plants.

3. Apply Ant Baits

If you have a serious ant problem in your potted plants, you may need to use ant baits. Ant baits contain a sweet substance that ants are attracted to, but they also contain a poison that will kill the ants. Place the ant baits around the pots, and ants will take the bait back to the colony, ultimately killing the entire colony. When using ant baits, make sure to read the instructions carefully and keep them out of reach of children and pets.

4. Repot the Plant

If ants have built a nest in the soil of your potted plant, you may need to repot the plant. Carefully remove the plant from the pot, and gently shake the soil off of the roots. Inspect the roots for any signs of damage, and replant the plant in fresh soil. This will help to remove any ants and their nests from the plant, and it will also provide the plant with fresh soil and nutrients.

5. Use Essential Oils

Finally, you can also use essential oils to keep ants out of potted plants. Lemon, peppermint, and tea tree oil are all effective at repelling ants. Simply mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil with water in a spray bottle, and spray the solution around the pots. The strong scent of the oils will keep ants away, and you can reapply the solution as needed.

In conclusion, keeping ants out of outside potted plants can be a challenge, but it is possible. By keeping the area clean, using ant-repellent mulch, applying ant baits, repotting the plant, and using essential oils, you can prevent ants from damaging your potted plants and keep them looking beautiful all season long.