Ants

They often infest dry soils especially sandy soils under pavers, but also make themselves at home in containers and may swarm on plants.

Ants swarming on a plant can be an indication of aphids or scale infestation.

There are many types of ants. Some are considered invasive pests (such as fire ants) and some, such as bull ants, can have painful bites.

Some ants can be beneficial in the garden as they are predators, they hunt for other insects and can aid pollination while they are foraging.  Ants, however, like to build nests around root systems of your plants which can damage growth and make them more vulnerable to disease.

Control options include improving soil so it holds more moisture. This can be achieved with a soil wetting agent such as Seasol Super Soil Wetter & Conditioner and a soil improver such as Seasol Biochar with Zeolite. Apply as a top dressing to soil and lawn or mix it into the potting mix.

Other organic methods include laying a thick border of cinnamon or orange peel as the ants won’t cross it. Borax can be used to bait traps and kill ants if the problem causes havoc in your garden. However, if they are not causing a problem to your garden then leave them alone.

A healthy garden can also help prevent pest infestation. If your plants are strong and healthy, they may be able to handle and reduce the stress of pests and diseases. Applying Seasol regularly every two weeks during the year can help them to cope with environmental stress. Keeping plants fed with fertilisers such as PowerFeed All Purpose including Natives, better watering and appropriate light exposure can also help build tougher plants.