As summer arrives, many people in the UK are enjoying their gardens, but they may also find themselves sharing their outdoor spaces with unwanted guests—ants. According to gardening experts, ants are the most common insects in the UK, often found both indoors and outdoors, particularly during the warmer months. These tiny creatures are attracted to food and moisture, making gardens a prime target for their foraging activities.
In recent months, there has been a significant increase in the search for solutions to ant problems. In fact, searches for “how to get rid of ants without killing them” surged by 5,000% in May 2025, as early summer weather led to a rise in ant activity. However, experts say there is a simple and natural way to address this issue.
James Higgins, a gardening expert at Grass247, explains that ants are drawn to dead organic waste in gardens, such as leaves, flowers, and twigs. “Ants are attracted to these materials, which provide them with nutrients and shelter,” he says. While ants do not typically damage plants, they can become a nuisance, especially on lawns and in potted plants, where they may disturb plant roots, according to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
To prevent ant infestations, Higgins recommends removing dead organic waste from gardens promptly. “By cleaning up leaves, flowers, and twigs, gardeners can make their outdoor spaces less appealing to ants,” he advises. This not only helps to deter the insects but also keeps the garden tidy and more enjoyable for humans.
Higgins suggests that gardeners should regularly check for and remove any lingering waste, placing it in a secure area such as a garden waste bin or compost heap. “Taking the time to keep your garden clean can make a big difference in preventing ant problems,” he says. “It ensures a safe and pleasant outdoor space for everyone to enjoy.”
While it may require some extra effort, maintaining a clean garden can help create an inviting environment for both gardeners and their guests, free from unwanted insect visitors.
