How to Drive Ants Out of Potted Plants

Overview

Ants in potted plants are usually harmless. In fact, they help decompose the organic matter in your soil, making the soil richer in nutrients. They also eat termites, flies and fly larvae. However, sometimes ants eat the plant leaves themselves or infest potted plants you want to move indoors. Several different methods will drive ants out of potted plants, and most only require common household items.

Step 1

Sprinkle baby powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cinnamon or chili powder on top of the soil around your plants. One of these supplements should repel the ants away from the potted plant.

Step 2

Place ant baits in your soil. Specific ant repellents are designed for the garden and have a pointed end that can be stuck directly into the soil. These repellents contain a poison that kills the colony once the ants take it back to their home. One ant bait per pot is sufficient.

Step 3

Mix water either a garlic, lemon or hot pepper in a blender. Pour the mixture directly on the ants in the plant pot. This will kill some, and should send the rest away.

Step 4

Confuse the ants by cleaning up their trail. Notice the trail the ant are taking and clean it with soap and water or an even mixture of white vinegar and water. This will prevent the ants from finding their way back to your potted plants.

Step 5

Set your potted plant in a tray of water. The ants will not be able to navigate over the water.