Ants

[Penellype]

Water trays do work for keeping ants out of plant pots, as long as you keep them topped up. Pot feet are not so effective, as ants can climb.

The only problem with having pools of open water is that they are a breeding ground for mosquitos. There is always something...

[Jay-ell]

You know, reading this thread reminded me of THEM

Reading articles on companion planting Pennyroyal is supposed to deter ants (along with flea beetle and midges, possibly aphids depending on the source)

[Bill HH]

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[Bill HH]

I have an ants nest in a compost bin. they seem to make wonderful compost. I can see no other damage in the garden so I just let them be.

[Penellype]

In general ants are not harmful, and can perform a useful function by aerating the soil. They become a pest when...

They make nests under plants or in pots, causing the soil to dry out and the plants to die.

They farm aphids for their honeydew, protecting them from natural predators such as hoverflies and ladybirds.

They decide to invade your house.

Some species of ant may bite or sting you if you disturb their nests.

After all,

The ant has made himself illustrious
Through constant industry industrious.
So what?
Would you be calm and placid
If you were full of formic acid?

The Ant
by Ogden Nash