Combating ants with nematodes

Ants live in colonies underground and can cause damage to lawns and gardens by building nests and exposing plant roots. They also protect aphids, which leads to additional plant damage. Early control helps prevent further nuisance and keeps your garden healthy.

Ants: What are they and how do you combat them effectively?

Antsare social insects that live in colonies and can be a nuisance both indoors and outdoors. In gardens, ants often cause damage by nesting under paving or in lawns, causing paving stones to sink or grass to weaken. Fortunately, there are effective and environmentally friendly methods to control ants, such as usingnematodes(nematodes).

This is what ants looks like:

How do you recognize damage by ants?

Ants can cause various types of damage in the garden and around the house. Here are the most common signs of an ant infestation:

  • Nest formation: Sand or soil mounds between tiles or in lawns, caused by ants building their nests.
  • Sunken pavement: Nests under tiles can cause subsidence, leading to unevenness on paths and patios.
  • Protective cooperation with aphids: Ants protect aphids in exchange for their honeydew, which promotes the spread of aphids and causes damage to plants.

Indirect damage and additional risks

Ants can cause indirect damage by working with aphids, resulting in plant damage. They also weaken lawns by digging, causing the grass to dry out and become more susceptible to disease.

Choose a natural approach

An effective way to get rid of ants is by usingnematodes. These nematodes enter the ant nests and drive the ants away in a natural way. The advantages of this biological method are:

  • Environmentally friendly: Nematodes specifically target ants and leave other beneficial organisms alone.
  • Effective and sustainable: Under the right conditions, nematodes can significantly reduce the ant population without the use of chemicals.
  • Safe for humans and animals: Nematodes are completely safe for children, pets and other animals, making them suitable for use in and around the home.

When to use nematodes against ants?

The best time tonematodesof the kindSteinernema feltiaecan be used against ants when the soil temperature is between10°C and 25°Clies. Nematodes work best when the soil is moist, so they can spread well in the ant nests. Apply the nematodes to the places where the ants are active and make sure the soil remains moist for optimal results. Repeat the treatment if necessary to completely eradicate stubborn ant colonies.

This natural approach allows you to effectively combat ants without the use of chemicals.Order nematodes todayand protect your garden and home against nuisance caused by ants!