Ant Killers That Are Safe for Plants

Ants can be a pest in your garden because they will eat your plants and destroy them. It can be difficult trying to find a solution that is safe for the plants and eliminates the ant problem. There are actually many household organic options that will not be harmful to the plants and will rid your garden of the ant problem.

Eliminate any food that is near the plants. If you place trash outside, make sure it is fully covered and placed far from the plants. Make sure you do not excessively water the plants and leave standing water near them as this can attract ants. Find where the ants are coming from; sometimes it is best to use anti-ant methods directly on their home or anthill.

Controlling the ant population can be done organically and safely so it does not harm your plants. Many organic methods involve household products. Sprinkle baking soda, flour or baby powder around the plants in a circle. This will prevent the ants from crossing the powder and reaching your plants. Coffee grounds, chili powder, cinnamon, peppermint, and black pepper will all deter ants. If you apply coffee grounds directly to an anthill, they will eat it and it is poisonous to ants.

Try sprinkling grits, instant rice or cream of wheat around the plants. If the ant eats these items and drinks water afterward, they grain will expand and kill the ant. Mix a spray bottle with one part vinegar and one part water and evenly spray on plants. The acidic mixture will kill the ants. Create a mixture of one-third cup of molasses, six tablespoons of sugar and six tablespoons of active dry yeast and stir until you create a paste. Lightly coat one side of a thin piece of cardboard and place outside the anthill.

Consider using a couple paper products that are known to be effective in killing ants and are safe for plants. Fold a piece of contact paper in half, with the sticky side out and place in a circle around the base of the plant. The ants will get stuck in the paper. Apply a layer of petroleum jelly to the outside of a paper cup and set around the base of the plant. The ants get suck in the petroleum jelly.

Purchase an organic ant pesticide such as Diatomaceous Earth if making an ant deterrent is something you do not want to do. This pesticide is safe for plants and the acting agent in it dehydrates ants and kills them.

Implement some of these anti-ant methods with caution since not all of them are safe for children and pets. All of the organic mixtures, spices and pesticides mentioned should be kept away from children and pets. If they ingest a large quantity, it could be harmful.