With spring around the corner, many people are looking to get their gardens in order. However, experts caution against the looming threat of pests that could jeopardise your plants from flourishing.
With the changing season comes heightened insect activity, posing challenges to gardeners striving to nurture their plants to maturity. Among the most problematic pests are ants, as their droppings contribute to the deterioration of foliage, fostering the growth of mould and disease.
Gardening expert Sam Marlow, from Garden Buildings Direct, suggests a simple yet effective solution to deter these unwanted intruders: cinnamon.
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Long valued for its culinary uses and aromatic qualities, cinnamon is now gaining recognition as a potent natural repellent for ants, offering a safe and eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides.
Sam shared: "Sprinkling cinnamon around the base of plants can deter ants, as they dislike the strong scent. This can help protect plants from aphids and other pests that ants often cultivate."
While ants themselves pose no significant health risks to humans, their sheer numbers can become a nuisance, warns Pest UK.
March marks the time when these pests become noticeable, with worker ants venturing into dwellings in search of food. Moreover, Diamond Pest Control highlights the versatility of cinnamon in pest management, recommending its use along ant trails and entry points in homes to create effective barriers and deter their intrusion.
By utilising the natural properties of cinnamon, homeowners can protect their living spaces from unwanted ant infestations while reducing environmental impact. In addition to its role as an ant repellent, cinnamon provides extra benefits for gardeners, reports the Express.
Diamond Pest Control notes that cinnamon can eliminate fungus patches in the soil around plants, preventing the growth of harmful pathogens and fostering a plant-friendly environment. This dual functionality makes cinnamon an invaluable tool for promoting healthy gardens and landscapes.