These ants have got to go! - Ask Extension
Saw your booth at the Douglas County Fair this past weekend and was directed to you here to solve my problem. I have a large pot of mint that I regul...
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These ants have got to go! #880633
Asked August 07, 2024, 9:52 PM EDT
Saw your booth at the Douglas County Fair this past weekend and was directed to you here to solve my problem. I have a large pot of mint that I regularly harvest from to use the mint in cooking and teas. But, it has now been infested with black ants - lots of aggressive, black ants! How can I get rid of them in a way that is safe for me to continue harvesting the mint?
Douglas County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Tamara,
I'm sorry to hear about that! You have a couple of options. The first would be to use ant baits in or near the pot--this should take care of the ants without contaminating the mint the way an insecticide spray might. Be sure to follow the label instructions if you choose to use an insecticide (either bait or spray).
Another option, if the pot is small enough, would be to submerge it in water for a day or so. The mint will tolerate it but the ants will be either killed or driven out. Drenching the soil with water and a small amount of soap can also drive them out or to the surface.
I hope this is helpful!
Cordially,
John
