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As temperatures rise and summer approaches, garden ants become a common nuisance for homeowners. Many gardeners seek effective pest control solutions to deter these insects, particularly from patios and paved areas which are highly attractive to them. Experts warn that ant infestations can lead to significant garden problems, making preventative measures crucial. Discover four clever and practical methods to deter ants and protect your outdoor spaces this season.
Expert Advice on Ant Prevention
Steven Walley, a specialist in patios and paving at London Stone, highlights the potential damage ants can inflict: “Ants are more than just an unsightly inconvenience in your garden. Their tunnelling activities beneath patio slabs and paved driveways can compromise the integrity of the joints. This excavation of sand can lead to paver subsidence, resulting in uneven surfaces and widened gaps between paving stones, fostering weed and moss growth.” Here are Walley’s recommended strategies to keep ants out of your garden.
Strategic Placement of Compost Bins
According to Walley, thoughtful positioning of compost bins plays a vital role in garden ant control. “While completely eliminating ants from your garden may be unrealistic, simple adjustments can discourage them from congregating in your main outdoor living areas, such as your patio,” he advises.
He elaborates, “If you utilise a compost bin, ensure it is situated well away from your residence and patio area. Compost bins can attract various insects, including ants. Similarly, consistent emptying of both indoor and outdoor bins is crucial, as ants are frequently drawn to food sources and standing water.”
Identifying Ant Infestation Signs
Recognising early indicators of ant presence is key to addressing potential problems promptly. Walley explains, “To detect ants in your garden or on your paved driveway, watch for small mounds of sand or soil. These deposits are left behind as ants excavate beneath pavers, indicating a nearby nest. These areas are prime locations to concentrate any ant deterrent treatments.”
Selecting Appropriate Jointing Material
Walley notes that the surface material of your paving is less critical than what lies beneath: “Regardless of whether you have concrete, brick, or porcelain paving, the vulnerability to ant colonies lies underground.” He recommends a preventative approach: “To minimise the chance of insects burrowing beneath your paving, consider using porcelain pavers combined with an impermeable, or water-resistant, jointing compound. This creates a less favourable environment for ant nests.”
Maintaining Garden Tidiness
A well-maintained garden is a significant deterrent to ants, Walley emphasises. “Simple maintenance tasks such as regularly mowing the lawn, removing fallen plant matter, and storing firewood inside a shed or garage can collectively discourage ants from establishing themselves in your garden,” he concludes.