Once upon a time in a backyard garden that knew only harmony and abundance came two unwelcomed pests, the Aphid and the Ant…
Now what? A garden that has been invaded by Aphids and Ants is not a happy garden. Instead of using pesticides to solve the problem how about trying some organic methods for defense? I switch up my arsenal depending on the garden location and plants being attacked and the organic way has worked well.
According to gardening book expert Barbara Damrosch in The Garden Primer: “If you see a lot of ants in your rose blossoms, they are herding aphids- literally farming them so that they will secrete a honey-like substance the ants love to eat. Wipe out the ants by wiping out the aphids.”
* Spray Roses with strong blasts of water daily until the aphids are flushed out. Sometimes using the most simple method first will take care of the problem.
* Citrus fruit works as a natural pesticide to keep ants away by steeping a peel from 1 orange in 2 Cups of Hot Water. Let it steep for 24 hours, discard the peels and add a few drops of liquid dish detergent. Use as a spray.
* Diatomaceous earth works great. Purchase at your local garden store or online. This also helps with other soil pests like snails and pill bugs.
* Household Vinegar poured down an anthill.
* Companion Planting: Plant Mint, Peppermint, Sage and Chives around the garden- ants are repelled by these plants. 
* Sprinkle Baking Soda around plants in a thin line
* Spray Bottle Mixture with Vinegar: 1 part Vinegar + 1 Part Water
* Coffee Grounds on an ant hill or around affected area
* Cornmeal sprinkles in a line or problem areas
* Spray Mixture with Soap : 2 Parts water to 1 Part Dish Soap
* Spray Mixture with Oil: 1 Cup Vegetable Oil + 1 1/2 Cup Water + 2 teaspoons of Dish Soap
* Use Garlic: Crush a garlic bulb and 1 minced onion and add to 1 Quart of water. Now add 1 teaspoon of Cayenne Pepper and let it sit for an hour. Strain into a sprayer. (Tip from Soil Mates)
* Ladybugs: Purchase in containers and release in the evening to affected area. This works very well for Rose Bushes.
* Worm castings and worm tea. Use often as a garden bed base.
Note: Use these methods continuously for best results.
Happy Gardening!
Happy Gardening!
