How to Get Rid of Ants on Houseplant Angel Plant

Ants are a common nuisance in many households, and they can be particularly troublesome when they infest houseplants. One plant that is often targeted by ants is the Angel Plant (Calathea orbifolia). These beautiful plants with their large, round leaves are a favorite among plant enthusiasts, but the presence of ants can quickly ruin their beauty. If you’re dealing with an ant problem on your Angel Plant, don’t worry! In this article, we will discuss various methods to get rid of ants and keep your houseplant healthy.

Why are ants attracted to houseplant Angel Plants?

Before we delve into the methods of getting rid of ants, it’s essential to understand why they are attracted to your Angel Plant in the first place. Ants are drawn to houseplants for several reasons:

Food source: Ants are opportunistic feeders and will scavenge for any available food. They may be attracted to fallen leaves or decaying organic matter that accumulates around the base of your plant.
Sap: Some ants have a sweet tooth and are attracted to the sugary sap produced by certain plants, including the Angel Plant. Ants can often be seen crawling on the stems or leaves, searching for this tasty treat.
Aphids: Ants have a symbiotic relationship with aphids. Aphids feed on plant sap and produce honeydew, a sugary substance that ants love. If your Angel Plant has a significant aphid infestation, it is likely to attract ants as well.

Now that we understand why ants are attracted to our Angel Plants let’s explore some effective methods to get rid of them.

Natural ways to get rid of ants on Angel Plants

If you prefer to use natural methods to eliminate ants from your Angel Plant, here are some effective strategies:

1. Wipe down the plant

Start by thoroughly wiping down the leaves and stems of your Angel Plant with a damp cloth. This will help remove any sticky residue or honeydew left behind by aphids, making the plant less attractive to ants.

2. Remove fallen leaves and debris

Clear away any fallen leaves or debris from around the base of your Angel Plant. This will eliminate potential food sources for ants and discourage them from nesting near your plant.

3. Create a deterrent barrier

Ants are excellent climbers, but you can create a deterrent barrier to keep them away from your Angel Plant. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth or cinnamon powder around the base of the plant. These substances are natural ant repellents and will make it difficult for ants to access your plant.

4. Use vinegar

Vinegar is another effective natural remedy to repel ants. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spritz it on the affected areas of your Angel Plant. The smell of vinegar will deter ants from approaching your plant.

5. Set up ant traps

Homemade ant traps can help control an ant infestation on your Angel Plant. Combine equal parts of borax and powdered sugar, and place small amounts of this mixture near the base of your plant. Ants will be attracted to the sugar but will also ingest the borax, which is toxic to them.

Chemical methods to get rid of ants on Angel Plants

If natural remedies fail to eliminate ants from your Angel Plant, you might consider using chemical methods as a last resort. Here are some options:

1. Ant baits

Ant baits are readily available in most garden centers and are an effective way to eliminate ants from houseplants. Place the bait near your Angel Plant, and ants will carry the poisoned food back to their nest, effectively eliminating the colony.

2. Insecticidal soap

Insecticidal soap is a safe and effective way to control ants on your Angel Plant. Follow the instructions on the product label and apply the soap directly to the affected areas of your plant. The soap will suffocate the ants, effectively getting rid of them.

Preventing future ant infestations

Once you have successfully eliminated the ants from your Angel Plant, it’s essential to take preventive measures to avoid future infestations. Here are some tips:

Regularly inspect your houseplants: Regularly check your Angel Plant for signs of aphids or other pests that may attract ants. Early detection and treatment of pest problems will prevent ants from being attracted to your plant.
Keep your house clean: Ants are attracted to food sources, so keeping your house clean and free of crumbs and spills will make it less likely for them to enter your home and target your plants.
Isolate infested plants: If you notice an ant infestation on one of your houseplants, isolate it from other plants until the problem is resolved. This will prevent ants from spreading to other plants in your collection.

In conclusion, dealing with an ant infestation on your Angel Plant can be frustrating, but with the right methods, you can get rid of these pesky insects and keep your plant healthy. Whether you choose natural remedies or chemical methods, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and take preventive measures to avoid future infestations. With a little effort, you can enjoy a beautiful, ant-free Angel Plant in your home.