Ants on apple trees can be a serious problem for gardeners.
These insects not only damage the tree, but also contribute to the spread of aphids, which feed on the juice of leaves and shoots.
Ants protect aphids from natural enemies and help them spread, which increases the damage to the tree.
As a result, the apple tree may lose strength, reduce productivity and become more susceptible to disease.
Anastasia Kovrizhnykh, an expert of the online publication BelNovosti, agronomist and landscape designer, spoke about how to repel ants from your apple tree.
Biological control methods
Biological methods of ant control include the use of natural enemies and the attraction of birds that feed on ants and aphids.
One way is to place bird feeders near apple trees. Birds such as tits and sparrows actively hunt insects, including ants.
Attracting such feathered allies will help reduce pest populations without the use of chemicals.
Barriers on the trunk
An effective method of preventing ants from climbing an apple tree is to install barriers on the trunk.
One such barrier could be sticky tape, which is wrapped around the trunk at a height of 20–30 cm from the ground.
The sticky layer traps the ants and prevents them from penetrating higher.
It is important to regularly check the condition of the tape and replace it if necessary to ensure continued protection.
Folk remedies
Folk remedies can also help in the fight against ants on an apple tree. One of the most common methods is the use of garlic.
An infusion of crushed garlic and water can be sprayed on the trunk and branches of the tree.
The pungent smell of garlic repels ants and reduces their activity.
Another folk remedy is to use baking soda and vinegar.
A mixture of these components is applied to the places where ants gather and their paths, which leads to the destruction of their communications and repels insects.
Chemicals
In cases where biological and folk methods do not give the desired result, you can resort to chemical preparations.
There are special insecticides designed to control ants.
Such drugs should be used with caution, strictly following the manufacturer's instructions.
It is important to consider that chemicals may affect other insects, including beneficial garden inhabitants.
Prevention and care
Prevention plays a key role in protecting apple trees from ants.
Regular inspection and care of the tree will help to detect and eliminate the problem in a timely manner.
It is important to remove weeds and debris around the trunk as they can provide shelter for ants.
It is also worth paying attention to the condition of the soil and maintaining it in good condition, which contributes to the overall health of the tree and reduces the risk of pests.
Earlier we told you how to defeat onion flies using folk remedies.
Expert: Anastasia Kovrizhnykh
