While many Brits enjoy the summertime buzz of bees and flutter of butterflies in their gardens, few are delighted when ants march into their homes. To help homeowners tackle this issue, gardening experts from J. Parker’s have taken to TikTok (@jparkersbulbs) with some clever and environmentally friendly tricks for managing ant invasions.
Hannah Rowson, Garden Centre Manager at J. Parker’s, shared her expertise in a recent video. “Usually, I wouldn’t consider ants pests in the garden because of their vital role in the ecosystem,” she explained. “But they can be a nuisance when they get into your home, and they can encourage other pests like aphids.”
Natural Ant-Deterrent Solution
Hannah recommended an inexpensive and eco-friendly solution: using lavender or peppermint oil to deter ants. “I recommend using a strong-smelling lavender or peppermint oil,” she said. “By mixing the oil, you can create a spray that will fend off ants.”
How to Make and Use the Spray
To create the ant-repelling spray, combine 10-15 drops of either lavender or peppermint oil with a cup of water. This mixture can then be sprayed around potential entry points such as windowsills, door thresholds, and other nooks and crannies.
However, the scent will need to be reapplied every few days or once the smell begins to weaken, as essential oils evaporate quickly.
Clearing Ant Nests from Pots
Hannah also offered advice on dealing with ant nests in plant pots. “If they get into a plant pot and build a nest, remove the plant and repot it,” she suggested. “If they get into your compost heap, make sure to keep turning it. This will disturb the nest enough so that they won’t be able to build it properly and will move on to somewhere else.”
Affordable and Wildlife-Friendly Alternative
For those looking for an affordable solution, Hannah recommended purchasing lavender oil for as little as £2 from various shops. This natural, non-toxic method not only keeps ants at bay but also leaves a pleasant aroma in the garden.
However, Hannah emphasized the importance of using the oils correctly. “Most essential oils are derived naturally and shouldn’t harm helpful critters like bees or ladybirds,” she said. “But it’s important to dilute the oils properly, do a patch test, and use them sparingly to protect your plants.”
By following these tips, homeowners can effectively manage ant invasions while protecting the environment and beneficial insects.
