Ants may well be useful for the soil. If the animals settle in the root ball, this can definitely lead to problems. This is how you properly fight ants in the root ball.
How do I fight ants in the root ball?
Apply liquids withdeterrent scents over the plant's root ball. You can use tea tree oil, lavender oil or vegetable manure for this purpose. Water the site regularly. Humidity also deters ants.
Are ants in root balls harmful?
An ant nest in the root ball can undermine theplant and hinder its supply. A few ants definitely have benefits for the soil and are useful for the garden. If more and more ants settle under the plant and ant nests form in the root area, this is not safe for the plant. On the one hand, it loses stability. If the soil under the roots is dug up, it hinders the plant's supply. This is why you should intervene.
How do I get rid of ants in the root ball?
Combat the ants in the root ball withmoistureandfragrances. For example, the following agents have a deterrent effect on ants:
- Tea tree oil
- Lavender oil
- Manure
- Vinegar
- Mint oil
Apply the liquid home remedies generously over the root area. The liquid will seep downwards and have an unpleasant effect on the ants. Regular watering can also drive away the ants. Humidity is not particularly appreciated by ants. However, you should take the needs of the plant into account and avoid waterlogging in the root area.
Can I relocate an ant nest in the root ball?
You can relocate smaller ant nests with aflower potandwood wool. This will work if the ant nest is small enough and the animals have settled in such a way that you can cover the ant nest with a pot. Here's how to do it:
- Fill the flower pot with wood wool.
- Put the pot upside down over the nest.
- Cover the drain hole with a heavy stone.
- Wait a week for ants to move into the protected pot area.
- Push the spade under the pot and move the ant nest to a new location.
How do I keep more ants away from the root ball?
Place anti-ant plants nearby. Herbs with a high content of essential oils in particular keep the small animals away thanks to their distinctive smell. For example, you can use one of the following plants:
- Lavender
- Wormwood
- Thyme
- Marjoram
Some gardeners also sprinkle cinnamon over the ground. However, the smell of the powder only keeps ants away from the root ball for a short period of time.
Tip
Baking soda has a short-term effect against acute infestations
You can also use baking powder or baking soda against an acute ant infestation in the root ball. Mix the powder with honey or powdered sugar. If the ants eat it, they die.
