Ants can affect all areas of the garden, from lawns to compost, and from pot plants to pathways. They are very social and gather in large numbers often creating numerous ant hills in lawns and extensive nests under hard surfaces.
Depending on the species, nests can vary in size from small chambers under stones, patio slabs or logs, to vast complex cavities that can develop beyond a metre in width and depth.
If you’re finding them a nuisance, or they’re causing damage, you might want to consider encouraging them to move on, using nematodes Steinernema feltiae as a biological control method.
Understanding nematodes
Nematodes are tiny, worm-like organisms that live in the soil. Beneficial nematodes, such as those from the Steinernema genera, are used successfully in biological pest control.
This biological control does not kill the ants, but it will drive them out and make them seek a home elsewhere. Steinernema feltiae will work on black, yellow, red, and flying ants.
The ants become aware of the presence of nematodes and abandon the nest. Ants detect the risk posed by nematodes and will quickly find a home elsewhere.
Why use nematodes for ant control?
- Environmentally friendly: Nematodes are a natural solution that don’t involve harmful chemicals, making them safe for the environment, pets, and children.
- Targeted action: They specifically target ant larvae, disrupting the colony's lifecycle and reducing the ant population over time.
- Ease of use: Applying nematodes is straightforward and can be done with basic gardening tools.
- Sustainability: This method supports sustainable gardening practices by reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.
- Effectiveness: Nematodes provide long-term control of ant populations, preventing future generations from establishing.
Identifying ant problems
It’s usually easy to identify where ants are building nests by the small piles of soil and sand they deposit on the surface during the excavation process.
A minute or two’s careful watching will show where the entrance or entrances are, giving you a good indication of where to focus your efforts.
You might notice ants running along plant stems, branches and tree trunks. This could indicate that an ants’ nest is nearby and that there may be a possible aphid presence in the plant/tree.
Ants can end up causing damage to plants in pots and containers as their nests can interfere with the roots’ ability to take up water and other nutrients.
Applying nematodes
- Choose the right time: Nematodes are most effective when applied in late spring to early autumn, when soil temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F), and when the weather is damp or wet.
- Prepare the nematode solution: Follow the instructions on the nematode package or on our product pages to mix them with water. This involves creating a stock solution in a bucket.
- Application: Use a watering can or a handheld sprayer to apply the nematode solution. Focus on areas where ant activity is highest, such as around nests and trails.
- Water the lawn: After applying the nematodes, water the treated areas thoroughly. This helps the nematodes penetrate the soil and reach the ant larvae.
- Maintain moisture: Keep the soil moist for at least two weeks after application to ensure the nematodes remain active and effective
Post-application care
- Monitor ant activity: Check the treated areas regularly to assess the reduction in ant activity. It may take a few weeks to see significant results.
- Reapply if necessary: In cases of severe infestations, a second application may be needed. Follow the same steps as the initial treatment.
- Avoid chemical pesticides: Using chemical pesticides can harm the nematodes and reduce their effectiveness.
How Much Ant Control Do I Need?
We sell biological ant control in two pack sizes: one to control up to 16 nests, and one to control up to 50 nests.
There are millions of microscopic nematodes in each pack – carefully worked out to ensure accurate application for each specific area listed. Each application of nematodes will provide at least six weeks control of leatherjackets.
Nematodes are supplied as an easy-to-mix powder which needs to be diluted with water before use. Specific dilution rates are shown on our product page.
Using nematodes is a practical and eco-friendly way to manage ant infestations in your garden or lawn. By following these steps, you can effectively reduce ant populations and maintain a healthy, vibrant outdoor space.
