What to do about ants on your plants

Symptoms

The pesky little pest (“gogga”) for the month of December will generally leave small heaps of fine sand on the surface above the nests on lawns

What does this mean for me/my plants?

Eventually, the ants will cause uneven, dying patches of lawn and uneven paving

Suggested Action

Ants prefer lawns which are patchy and in a bad condition, so first prize is to ensure your lawn is well-maintained. Spray with a contact insecticide or apply granular ant bait (which will be carried to the nest) to eradicate the nest. Note: If your plants are full of ants, leave them – they are after the aphids that are infesting your plants and so, are a natural protector. Visit your local GCA garden centre for advice on the best insecticide or bait.