Are There Any Plants That Deter Ants?

Last Updated on February 21, 2022 by Griselda M.

Are there plants that deter ants? Nobody home’s is 100% insect-free and when it comes to ants, everyone has probably experienced them. But that doesn’t mean we all don’t look for solutions that will get rid of them.

Ants are just a few of the many annoying pests and that is because they’re very aggressive and pervasive. They even bite. There are small and large ants, the latter being the most painful when they bite. But have you ever wondered how ants are being attracted to food? The answer is “scent”.

Ants heavily rely on their ability to smell food and anything attractive from afar. Surprisingly, these tiny creatures use their sense of smell to communicate from afar. For the same reason, some plants are hardly visited by ants because of their scents. Having a houseplant with aromatic oils can deter ants from exploring any further in your home.

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Do Marigolds Keep Ants Away?

The answer is yes. Although there is no direct evidence that proves marigolds can keep ants away, the marigold plant has worked wonders in terms of repelling various insects, including ants. This plant releases chemicals that can kill earthworms and other organisms in the earth that can kill the root system.

If you want to get rid of ants naturally, you may want to try the marigold plant. However, according to one study from the University of California Integrated Pest Management Program, ants are good for the garden.

Even if ants are annoying, you may need them for your outdoor garden for repelling other insects that try to harm your plants such as aphids, mealybugs, and soft scales. Nevertheless, if you want to get rid of pests in your garden, you should avoid planting certain pats that attract honeydew-producing insects.

List Of Plants That Attract Ants

The following is a list of plants that can attract ants.

1. Peonies

Peonies are a well-known choice for plant lovers that need stunning, sweet-smelling blossoms in their yard. As you might know, there is a solid connection between peonies and subterranean insects such as the little bugs really can’t avoid these blossoms. The nectar of this plant is too sweet-smelling that it is very easy for ants to find its location.

2. Wild parsnip

Wild parsnip is an irritating weed that can be found in wet environments. These plants are very enormous, regularly finishing out at 5 feet, and their sap can cause painful skin burns. But while this plant is a no-no for those who have allergies, it can attract ants eventually.

3. Desert willow

If you live in the Southwest district of the United States, you are most likely acquainted with a bloom known as the desert willow. As a result of its alluring shading, the desert willow is a common choice for southwest landscapers. They can be found in an assortment of homes. But while this bloom can make your yard look extraordinary, it surely will carry ants to your property.

What Is A Natural Way To Repel Ants?

Although plants can add magnificence to your property, they can invite ants. If you believe your home is being invaded by ants, then you should check your plants whether they have started there. Other sources can also include improper waste management or spoiled food left somewhere in your home.

If the ants are not yet very severe, you can still get rid of them using natural means.

Sprinkle spicy herbs in the area where you have seen the ants. You must find the home and release the ingredients there. Do not pour anything on a single ant that’s been walking and searching for food around your home.

Some of the most effective herbs that can draw away ants are cinnamon, min, chili peppers, or black pepper.

Sprinkle coffee in their home. Ants love sweets, right? So how about if you sprinkle used coffee grounds in their homes? Eventually, you will see that the ants are coming out of their home.

Use cucumber or citrus peel to drive ants away. Ants don’t like the smell of these fruits. Moreover, they exhibit anti-fungal capabilities, which suppress the main food growth of ants.

The Best Plants That Repel Ants

Lavender can get a little large for the indoor garden but you can still train them to grow petite. In any case, if you are looking for a natural repeller in the home, try lavender. This plant produces a unique aroma that can drive away ants. Just make sure that you give your plants ideal sunlight exposure.

Rosemary

Not aromatic as the mint and lavender, rosemary can still drive ants away. Thanks to its unique scent that when you have it indoors, you won’t see a single ant.

You can grow rosemary indoors and help drive away ants.

Thyme

Thyme has a dual purpose. Of course, it’s one of the best herbs you can use for cooking delicious recipes. But like mint, it grows perfectly in an indoor setting. You can put it on your kitchen countertop and you will notice that ants won’t even get close to it.

Tansy

This flowering plant is super unique. Thanks to its yellow blooms that can help accentuate your indoor setting. This plant can also repel ants but you would need to have a bigger space, where you can place it. It also requires full or indirect sunlight exposure.

Marigold

Again, the marigold plant is also a good plant to grow inside or outside if you drive ants naturally. When you have this plant, there’s no need to use insect repellants. You can enjoy the fresh air and refreshing views of the green leaves and marigold flowers.

Grow These Plants To Keep Ants Away

You want to keep those annoying tiny creatures; you want to invest in plants that deter ants. It is probably the most natural way and fashionable way to drive ants away. Moreover, plants can help improve the indoor air quality of your home. Are you ready to get started? Now is the perfect time to start tracking your gardening progress and see how well your plants perform.