Small Black Ants In House Plants

What is attracting ants in the first place.

Small black ants in house plants. The most effective way of getting rid of ants in potted plants is a combination of baiting and using insecticidal soap. Black ants have a black shiny appearance. These items include baking soda pepper cinnamon chili powder and peppermint. Little black ants typically nest in woodwork or masonry but sometimes come indoors and they are known to nest in the soil and under yard debris.

They feed on insects aphids secretion and sweet foods. They can often build nests in the roof of a house but also in wall spaces. They will be in residence ready to come to your aid when needed. Ladybird predator insect in a balanced food fight with one ant protecting many mature black aphids plant nectar and pollen rich flowers in your garden to attract beneficial insects.

Their trails can go up to the trunk of the trees as they can also feed honey dew from certain insects. Their color varies from dark brown to shiny black. The tiny black bugs on plants are normally either fungus gnats aphids or spider mites. If you are uncomfortable using insecticides especially if they have pets or children there are several items in your kitchen cupboards that can kill or deter ants.

More than likely those tiny black invaders are odorous house ants tapinoma sessile which are very common here in the northwest. Buy some ant bait and place it along any trails you see leading away from the plant. Inside the house little black ant infestation is usually the result of improper food storage. They ll carry this bait back to the nest thinking it s food and will kill the whole colony.

They have an uneven chest and exude a strong smell if crushed. With so many potential food sources they are just as comfortable foraging indoors as they are outdoors. Their diet can consist of seeds meat dead insects oily foods fruits vegetables cornmeal plant secretions or grease. Black ants are two to three millimeters long and they usually build their nests underground in decaying wood or under bark.

Like all living things on god s green earth ants are in search of food water and shelter. This is why your kitchen and bathroom are prime targets. Surround your plants with household products that are toxic or deterrents to ants. Small black ants are omnivores and aren t usually picky when it comes to what they eat.

Getting rid of tiny black ants in your house will be an easier project if you can eliminate the sources of food or water that is allowing them to thrive. They are also very persistent in their efforts in that they.