Certain plants have properties that ants find unappealing, making them great additions to your yard or home and a natural and eco-friendly solution to help prevent ant infestations. Here are some of the top plants to consider adding to your outdoor spaces to help deter ants!
What Plants Repel Ants?
Many plants possess natural compounds that ants dislike. These plants can be strategically placed around your home and garden to keep them away:
1. Mint
Mint is one of the most effective plants that repels ants. Its strong scent disrupts ants’ scent trails, keeping them away. You can plant mint around the perimeter of your home or in pots near entry points. Mint spreads quickly, so consider planting it in containers to control its growth.
2. Lavender
Lavender is a versatile plant that not only repels ants but also adds beauty and fragrance to your garden. Plant lavender in your garden beds or place potted lavender near windows and doors. The strong aroma of lavender is what plants ants hate, making it a powerful deterrent.
3. Basil
Basil is another herb that repels ants. Its pungent scent keeps ants at bay. Plant basil in your garden, especially near tomato plants, to benefit from its repellent properties and companion planting benefits. You can also keep potted basil in your kitchen to deter ants naturally.
4. Marigolds
Marigolds are popular garden plants that deter ants and other pests. Their strong odor is unpleasant to ants. Plant marigolds around garden beds and near entrances to your home. They are easy to grow and provide vibrant, colorful flowers.
5. Rosemary
Rosemary is a hardy herb that ants avoid. Its woody scent is another example of what plants do ants hate. Plant rosemary in your garden or keep potted rosemary near your patio or windows. It’s a great addition to your herb garden and also serves as a natural repellent.
6. Thyme
Thyme is an effective plant to deter ants due to its strong fragrance. You can plant thyme in your garden beds or in pots around your home. Thyme is also a useful culinary herb, adding flavor to your dishes while keeping ants away.
How to Keep Ants Off Plants
While planting ant-repelling plants can help, additional methods exist to keep ants off your plants.
1. Diatomaceous Earth
Sprinkling food-grade diatomaceous earth around the base of plants can deter ants. This natural substance dehydrates ants, killing them without harmful chemicals. It’s a safe and natural way to kill ants outside.
2. Citrus Peels
Placing citrus peels around your garden can repel ants. Ants dislike the scent of citrus, making orange, lemon, and lime peels effective deterrents. Scatter the peels around plants and garden beds to keep ants away.
Herbs That Repel Ants
Herbs are particularly effective in repelling ants due to their strong scents and oils.
1. Peppermint
Peppermint is one of the most potent herbs that repel ants. Its intense aroma is unpleasant to ants. Plant peppermint in your garden or place potted peppermint near doorways and windows. You can also use peppermint essential oil as a spray to enhance its repellent effect.
2. Catnip
Catnip is another herb that ants avoid. Plant catnip in your garden to keep ants and other pests at bay. However, be mindful if you have cats, as they are attracted to catnip.
3. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a fragrant herb that repels ants. Plant lemon balm in your garden or keep potted lemon balm indoors.
How to Kill Ants on Plants
If ants are persistently invading your plants, you may need to take stronger measures to remove and kill them.
Borax and Sugar
A mixture of borax and sugar can be used to kill ants on plants. The sugar attracts the ants, while the borax poisons them. Place the mixture near ant trails and affected plants. Be cautious with borax around children and pets, as it can be harmful if ingested.
Vinegar Solution
A vinegar solution can also kill ants on plants. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar and spray it directly on the ants and affected areas. Vinegar is a natural way to kill ants outside and is safe for most plants.
Soap and Water Solution
A simple solution of dish soap and water can help remove ants from plants. Mix a few drops of dish soap with water in a spray bottle and apply it directly to the ants and affected areas. This method is safe for plants and effective in killing ants on contact.
Neem Oil
Neem oil is a natural pesticide that can help get rid of ants on plants. Mix neem oil with water and spray it on your plants according to the instructions. Neem oil not only kills ants but also helps with other garden pests.
Preventing ants in your home and garden
Using plants that repel ants is an effective and natural way to manage ant infestations in your home and garden. From herbs like mint, basil, and lavender to other plants like marigolds and eucalyptus, these natural solutions can help keep ants away. Incorporating these plants into your garden and home deters ants and enhances your outdoor space with their beauty and fragrance. Combining these plants with other natural methods can help keep pests away without relying on harsh chemicals.
Take a look at our guide on how to get rid of ants, and if you’re dealing with a persistent ant infestation – reach out to our professional ant exterminators, who have the knowledge and solutions to tackle your ant infestation!
FAQ’s
Do Ants Like Eucalyptus?
Eucalyptus is a plant that ants dislike. The strong scent of eucalyptus leaves and oil is effective in repelling ants. Plant eucalyptus trees around your garden, or use eucalyptus oil as a natural repellent. The oil can be diluted with water and sprayed around your home to deter ants.