Just took out the last of my pepper and basil plants for the season. The amount of ants that was under the basil plants is insane. Is this normal? Is there a way to prevent this, or do they harm plants at all? I won’t be planting anything in these garden beds until sometime in the Spring.
by ExoticServe1
7 Comments
There was a nest – you likely disturbed it and they are freaking g out. They will find a new place to nest soon.
Same issue. Nothing has seemed to work. So following for ideas.
You had an ant nest under your basil. I had one in my Strawberry pot this summer, they grew great I had no idea till I went to Repot it and I was suddenly holding a root ball that was moving and I was like duuuuh fuuuuck
Ants move organic material underground and help aerate the soil. I have never had them cause problems with a living plant or fruit that was still healthy and on the vine. They will go after cracked fruit or anything damaged though.
The fact you’re shocked by this, I assume California doesn’t have fire ants yet. Hopefully the vast deserts they would have to cross keeps them away.
ants are known to ‘farm’ aphids, I had this happen on some of my pepper plants. I didnt really notice any crazy damage from it
I use turmeric powder whenever I have an ant issue. It won’t work overnight, but it will definitely help.