ants!

never had this before but have loads and loads of ants all over my blackcurrant, blueberry and strawberries (which all sit in pots by each other). Is this bad?

 

Er, yes. Probably. Sounds like you've got an ants' nest (or two) actually in the pots. If they're black ants, they'll start to farm aphids on your plants. Probably too late to inspect the root balls now. I'd set some ant bait near the pots and try and wipe them out.

I don't usually bother to kill ants in the garden but if they're visible all over your plants now, something has to be done.

 

I have the same problem!! I will be putting some ant stuff down when the rain goes away!! :gnthb:

 

hi mztrouble if there red ants just put a squirt of washing up liquid in your watering twice a week you'll have no more trouble.
Have used this method lots and it works a treat.
Micky

 

Indeed, red ants don't like a weak detergent spray.
If it's black ants, get those bait stations down immediately, that should clear the problem within a week. I used Ant Stop, they are black plastic circular traps that you get at the garden centre, about the size of the palm of your hand. Two to a pack:
http://www.lovethegarden.com/products/pestdisease/antstopbait.html

 

ah, thanks chaps! Its black ants - I re-potted at the start of spring so it will be a surprise if there is a nest in the pot itself but I guess they are fast workers!!! Will put anti ant bait stuff down when the rain stops!

Thanks again!

 

Someone on gardeners question time today on R4 had this problem, not to your extent though. The sugestions were,
* Soak it for a few days, and see if the soden water will get rid of the ants.
* Pop the pots on legs and in trays of water. Then unless the ants build boats or bridges they are stuck

Wont help too much though if the nest IS in the pots, thats unlikely though isn't it?