Ants may be tiny, but the problem they pose in our homes and gardens can be huge. If you’re facing an ant invasion in your kitchen or around your plants, fear not – there’s a delightful-smelling, wallet-friendly solution at hand.
No one enjoys the sight of ants inside their house, even though gardeners might love bees and butterflies. Ants, particularly during the hotter seasons, have a knack for sneaking into our spaces through the tiniest of openings. The experts from J. Parker’s, a prominent gardening retailer, have offered their advice on TikTok (@jparkersbulbs) about how to keep these pesky insects away.
In one of their latest uploads, Hannah Rowson, the Assistant Garden Centre Manager, divulges her favourite tactic.
Hannah begins by saying: “Usually, I wouldn’t consider ants pests in the garden because of their vital role in the ecosystem,” but she acknowledges the hassle they represent when intruding into living areas and attracting other critters such as aphids to our abodes, reports the Mirror.
She proposes using aromatic oils as her top choice for repelling ants naturally without causing harm to your plants or the environment. “I recommend using a strong-smelling lavender or peppermint oil to deter them,” she suggests.
For those keen on creating their own anti-ant spray, simply combine 10 to 15 drops of either lavender or peppermint essential oil with a cup of water. Shake it well, and you’ll have your very own eco-friendly insect deterrent ready for action.
Spritz the concoction along typical ant entry points such as windowsills, skirting boards, door frames, and any small cracks you suspect might be access routes. The potent aroma will deter ants without causing environmental harm.
Given that essential oils tend to evaporate rapidly, it’s advisable to replenish the spray every few days or whenever you notice the scent beginning to go. A top-up will ensure a consistent ant deterrent.
Hannah also offered guidance for those who discover ants nesting in their plant pots. “If they get into a plant pot and build a nest, remove it and repot your plant,” she advised.
“If they get into your compost heap, make sure to keep turning it!”
Frequently disrupting a nest renders the area less attractive to ants, prompting them to move elsewhere without resorting to harsh chemicals or pest control services.
Moreover, this approach is both eco-friendly and cost-effective. Lavender oil can be purchased from high street stores for as little as £2, presenting an excellent alternative to commercial pesticides.
“Not only will your garden smell wonderful, but the potent scents are distasteful for ants and prevent them from accessing the treated areas,” Hannah explains. It’s a win-win situation for anyone aiming to maintain a pest-free home.
While essential oils are generally safe, Hannah advises proper dilution and a patch test before widespread use. When used responsibly, they provide a non-toxic solution to maintaining a harmonious home and garden this summer.