ants again!

jinty · #1 (**permalink**) 24-08-2010, 11:47 AM

Hi there, is 'boiling water' the best way to get rid of many ant hills in my garden- there are no other creatures that I am aware of depending on them as 'food'. Unfortunately no dragon flies visit my garden!

JackintheGreen · #2 (**permalink**) 24-08-2010, 12:02 PM

To be quite honest, I'd have thought that you'd get a better response on a gardening forum. Most people on here aren't into killing garden wildlife.

artdemole · #3 (**permalink**) 24-08-2010, 01:14 PM

Since the question has been asked,it needs an answer.You could use lemon peelings placed on trails or plant mint.Also brew mint tea and use that..

Cotham Marble · #4 (**permalink**) 24-08-2010, 01:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jinty

Hi there, is 'boiling water' the best way to get rid of many ant hills in my garden- there are no other creatures that I am aware of depending on them as 'food'. Unfortunately no dragon flies visit my garden!

Why do you want to kill the ants ? They are a vital part of soil ecology, in addition quite a number of ground feeding birds will take them as food.

If the 'hills' are an asthetic or practical problem, simply simply cut around the hill with a spade, digging down at least 10cms below the surrounding soil surface - and move to a location where the mound will not cause you hassle. Do be aware that 'hills' are often temporary and will disappear during the succeeding winter.

Boiling water is unlikely to kill off a whole nest in soil - it can reduce numbers in nests located in/below concrete but soil is a good insulator and will deflect heat from the main nest chambers. Try to live with your ants - they are busy maintaining the health of your garden !

CM