Ants can be a nuisance for gardeners in India, especially during the rainy season. Not only do they invade our homes, but they can also cause damage to our plants. Ants feed on the sweet honeydew secreted by aphids and other plant-sucking insects, and they protect these insects from predators, allowing them to multiply rapidly. Fortunately, there is a simple and cost-effective solution to keep ants away from your plants: cinnamon.
Cinnamon is a popular spice that is widely used in Indian cooking. It is also an effective tool in the Indian gardener’s arsenal for keeping ants at bay. Here’s how to use cinnamon to keep ants away from your plants:
Ingredients:
- Ground cinnamon
- A shaker or a small spoon
Instructions:
- Sprinkle a small amount of ground cinnamon around the base of the plant or on the soil surface.
- Reapply the cinnamon every 7-10 days or after rain.
Cinnamon works by disrupting the ants’ sense of smell, making it difficult for them to locate the sweet honeydew. It also acts as a natural fungicide and insecticide, protecting your plants from fungal diseases and pests. Additionally, cinnamon has soil-improving properties, making it an excellent addition to your garden soil.
While using cinnamon is an effective way to keep ants away from your plants, it’s important to remember that prevention is key. Good cultural practices, such as removing aphids and other plant-sucking insects, can go a long way in preventing ants from taking hold in the first place. Also, avoid using chemical pesticides, as these can harm beneficial insects and pollinators.
In conclusion, gardening can be challenging in India, but using cinnamon to keep ants away from your plants is an easy and cost-effective solution to one of the most common problems faced by Indian gardeners. By using this simple cinnamon hack, you can protect your plants from ants and enjoy a healthy and thriving garden.