The humid weather is creating exceptionally large numbers of ant nests in the garden. And they can leave hefty traces on your patio, lawn, and ornamental plants. Fortunately, there are natural and efficient ways to get rid of them. Garden expert Laurence Machiels shares four tips that really work. “Do not pour boiling water, chlorine, or vinegar on the nests. It will destroy your lawn and plants.”
Natural and Efficient Ways to Eliminate Ants
1. Use Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized algae. It works by dehydrating the ants, which kills them. Simply sprinkle the powder around the ant nests and along the paths they travel. This method is safe for your plants and pets.
2. Create a Barrier with Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a natural ant repellent. Sprinkle a line of cinnamon powder around your garden beds, patio, and other areas where ants are a problem. The strong scent disrupts their scent trails, deterring them from entering these areas.
3. Deploy Nematodes
Nematodes are microscopic worms that can be mixed with water and applied to the soil. They naturally prey on ants and other garden pests. This eco-friendly solution won’t harm your plants and will help control the ant population effectively.
4. Bait with Borax and Sugar
Create a mixture of borax and sugar, and place it near the ant nests. The sugar attracts the ants, and the borax acts as a poison that they carry back to the nest. Over time, this will kill off the entire colony. Be sure to keep this mixture away from pets and children.
By using these natural and effective methods, you can get rid of ants in your garden without damaging your lawn and plants. Avoid using harsh chemicals like boiling water, chlorine, or vinegar, as these can cause more harm than good. Instead, opt for these eco-friendly solutions to keep your garden healthy and ant-free.
