Ants can be a nuisance in the vegetable garden, especially when they breed aphids on fruit trees, which affects the health of the plants.

However, you don’t need to resort to harsh chemicals to keep them under control.

There are natural and safe methods that will allow you to keep them away without damaging the ecosystem.

Natural methods to ward off ants

1. Using baking soda

Baking soda is an excellent ally to keep ants away.

These insects generate formic acid and, when they come into contact with the bicarbonate, a reaction occurs that repels them.

How to apply:

• Sprinkle baking soda around the trees or plants you want to protect.
• If you want to eradicate an anthill, cover it completely with baking soda.
• Renew the application every few days or after a rain.

2. Anise or ammonia essential oil with anise

Ants have a very sensitive sense of smell and certain smells can be unbearable for them.

One of the most effective is anise.

How to apply:

• Make a small hole in the anthill about 10-15 cm deep.
• Soak a cotton ball or piece of cloth with anise essential oil or anise-flavored ammonia.
• Place the cotton ball in the hole and cover it with soil.
• In a few days, the ants will leave the place.

3. Natural barriers with spices and plants

Some spices and aromatic plants act as natural ant repellents:

• Cinnamon and cloves: Sprinkle them on the edges of the garden.
• Citrus peels: Place them near the affected plants.
• Lavender and mint: Planting them around the vegetable garden can keep ants away.

Additional Tips

• Keep the garden clean and free of food debris or organic matter that attracts ants.
• If ants are breeding aphids on your plants, rinse the leaves with white soap and water to remove them.
• Try different methods and combine several to increase their effectiveness.

With these natural tricks, you can keep your garden free of ants without the use of chemicals, thus protecting the balance of the ecosystem and the health of your plants.