Garden experts have revealed a quirky method to deter pests from a garden and all you need is a handful of discoballs (just like these £8.89 hanging ornaments from Amazon).

Disco style may certainly be in fashion for 2026, and when it comes to your garden, it can be a really useful tool for deterring garden pests. If you want to deter wasps and flies and keep pests off your plants, a glittering mirrorball can be helpful.

The light that reflects off a disco ball can disrupt how flies and other insects navigate, in turn putting them off coming near your plants. It’s a harmless deterrent, but one that will also make your garden glitter like Studio 54.

The disco ball hack

Before you head off and make your veg patch glimmer like the ‘70s, it’s important to understand how the hack works, and luckily, the answer is simple. It’s all about using reflected light to disturb pests' navigation paths.

‘Gardeners can use disco balls to deter pests as insects like flies rely on light and reflection when navigating, and their sense of direction can be affected by the reflections cast by a disco ball spinning in direct sunlight. This will not harm them, but can be annoying enough that they may start to avoid the area,’ says Richard Barker, horticultural expert and commercial director of LBS Horticulture.

‘The reflections cast by the disco ball can interfere with pests' sense of direction, as they can be reliant on light and reflection to navigate. In order for this to work, the disco ball needs to be in direct sunlight with some wind to make it spin.’

As Richard explains, placement is really important for this hack to work. You need to put the disco balls where they can catch a breeze, and of course, near the areas you want to deter pests from.

‘For disco balls to be most effective, they must be hung where they will get maximum direct light and be able to catch any breezes to make them swing or spin. They also need to be placed close to where they are most needed to deter pests. For example, to keep gnats, flies, wasps or mosquitoes away from seating or eating areas, hang them over outdoor furniture, around patios etc, etc., says Lucie Bradley, garden and greenhouse expert at Easy Garden Irrigation.

‘If you have problems with gnats or flies near your bins, then this is also a good place to suspend disco balls. Or places where there is lots of footfall, such as next to gates or entrances. If you want to use them to deter birds from your fruits or vegetables, then place them closer to where they are growing, hanging them from trees, from shepherds crooks or basket brackets, as long as they are not in the shadows and not totally sheltered from the wind.’

Is this a good hack to use?

While the prettier of pest control hacks, it is best to use the disco ball hack alongside other forms of pest control such as attracting natural predators, companion planting and even sticking forks in your veg patch.

‘Although it can be a good method to use, the weather conditions may not always be reliable enough to supply enough direct sunlight and wind for it to be effective. If there is no wind to spin the disco ball, it can also potentially become a fire hazard if light reflects onto a dry, flammable surface for a prolonged period of time, such as brittle grass,’ says Richard.

‘The hack will also not work at night, so it is best paired with other methods of pest control that genuinely work, such as fly traps. You should also avoid things that attract pests in the first place, such as leaving food uncovered or leaving bins open.’

Lucie agrees, however, points out that the disco ball method is a cost-effective one and one that doesn’t rely on chemicals. Again, she recommends it with other methods as part of a multi-pronged approach to tackling pests.

‘To make them last as long as possible, keep them out in your garden only in spring and summer and then store them through autumn and winter to protect them from the worst weather. Ideally disco balls with blown plastic cores will be better than those with polystyrene centres as they will be better at resisting wet weather conditions,’ she adds.

Would you try this glittering garden hack?

Are you ready for flying ant day? Do you even know what it is? Don’t worry if not, I’ve asked pest experts to break down this annual natural phenomenon for us.

Every summer, it seems we look for ways to get rid of flying ants, but first, it is best to understand what they are and where they come from, before looking for methods to deter ants.

Spoiler alert! Flying ant day is a real thing, and it happens every year, when ants release their queen from the colony to mate. This is everything you need to know about this garden pest, according to experts.

What is flying ant day?

Okay, so there isn’t a literally flying ant day in the sense that all ants gain wings and fly off on the same day. What we are instead referring to is a season of sexually mature male and female ants who have taken to the air in search of a mate.

‘Flying ant day is very much a real phenomenon. It refers to the period when black garden ant colonies simultaneously release their winged queens and males to mate in the air. It feels like a single day because multiple colonies in the same area respond to the same weather trigger at the same time, creating that sudden swarm effect that seems to appear from nowhere,’ explains Mosh Latifi, co-owner of EcoCare Pest Management

This event typically occurs in July or August and coincides with a period of hot and humid weather, however flying ants can appear anytime between June and September. It also varies per location, so the local weather forecast is also very important.

‘It is not a fixed date and varies by location and weather conditions each year. It typically occurs between late June and early September, with peak activity most commonly in July and August across the UK. The trigger is a specific combination of warm, humid air following a wet spell, which is why it tends to happen on muggy, overcast days after rain. For 2026, based on typical patterns, peak flying ant activity is most likely in late July or early August, though a prolonged warm spell could bring it earlier,’ adds Mosh.

How to deter flying ants

‘As annoying as they may be, swarming through the sky, flying ants are harmless to humans, and their annual swarming is actually great for the environment. Their increased numbers give birds in the area a brilliant source of food,’ says James Ewens, wildlife expert for Green Feathers.

‘As the females dig into the soil upon landing to try and start a new colony, flying ants aerate the soil, and they also recycle nutrients, and are natural pest controllers.’

But while flying ants won't harm you, they can be irritating, especially when you’re hosting in your garden. Because of this, it can be helpful to enlist some natural methods to deter them from your garden seating areas.

‘Ditch the chemical-based products and opt for essential oils and natural ingredients instead. A good repellent for flying ants is to create a homemade spray made from one part dish soap and two parts water, plus one or two drops of peppermint oil, all mixed together in a spray bottle. Spritz wherever you find ants,’ says James.

Mosh also recommends using either peppermint (£4.99, Amazon) or cinnamon oil (£4.99, Amazon) spray with water and spray the diluted solution in entryways and windows of your home, or areas of your patio you want ants to avoid.

‘The menthol compounds are deeply repellent to ants and disrupt their scent trails completely. White vinegar sprayed on surfaces where ants have been travelling destroys their pheromone trails and discourages them from returning. Cinnamon sprinkled along windowsills and door thresholds creates a barrier ants will not cross,’ he says.

Do you feel prepared for flying ant day this year now?

If aphids, slugs and other garden pests are turning your outdoor space into a battleground, it might be time to let nature lend a helping hand.

Creating a healthy, sustainable garden is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. And encouraging natural predators into your garden is one of the easiest ways to keep common pests under control without relying on toxic chemicals. It can also help create a balanced ecosystem where pests and invasive growth are kept under control naturally.

While predators will not remove weeds directly, they can help reduce the insects and conditions that weaken plants and allow unwanted growth to take hold. A thriving, biodiverse garden is often far more resilient and easier to manage, too.

Here are some of the best things you can do to attract helpful creatures to your garden and encourage them to stick around, so you can help protect your plants naturally.

1. Welcome birds

Garden birds are some of the best natural helpers you can attract. Species commonly found in UK gardens, such as robins, blackbirds, wrens and blue tits, feed on slugs, snails, caterpillars and weed seeds.

By reducing these problems naturally, birds help maintain healthier planting areas and reduce the need for chemical intervention. To encourage birds into your garden, provide a reliable source of fresh water for drinking and bathing with a bird bath, like this freestanding bird bath with a stake, £18.39 from Amazon, which is great to position anywhere on your lawn.

Bird feeders filled with sunflower hearts, peanuts or suet will help attract a range of species throughout the year. Just make sure you take heed of the RSPB's advice to only feed fat balls and suet for summer bird feeding.

Emma O’Neill from Garden Organic adds, 'Provide nesting spots for birds, such as mixed hedging or nesting boxes.' This is a lovely little bird house from Elho, £13.99 at Amazon, designed by experts to create the perfect spot for more than 11 species, from sparrows to blue tits.

Native hedges, shrubs and climbers provide nesting sites and shelter from predators. Piles of leaves, dense shrubs and log stacks create safe places for birds to forage and rest, too – so don’t focus too much on a tidy garden in every spot! In a similar vein, Emma adds, 'Leave areas of your lawn a little longer. Insects love long grass, and birds will feed on them.' Once birds recognise your garden as a dependable habitat, they are likely to return regularly.

Shop our favourite bird feeders

2. Create a pond for water-loving helpers

Even a small pond can make a huge difference to garden biodiversity. Frogs, toads and newts are excellent natural predators and are especially helpful in controlling slugs and other soft-bodied pests that can damage plants.

A wildlife pond does not need to be large or elaborate – even a simple washing-up bowl sunk into the ground works fantastically. If you’d rather go for something pre-made, a pond like this one from B&Q is a great choice.

Popping logs and stones near the pond will provide cool hiding places for the pond’s residents during warm weather, as well as helping them get out of the water. As a bonus, ponds also attract dragonflies and other beneficial insects that contribute to a balanced garden ecosystem.

Shop ready-to-go ponds

3. Plant native flowers to boost beneficial bugs

Not all insects are harmful to the garden. In fact, many species actively help by feeding on pests that weaken plants and make them vulnerable to competition from weeds. One of the best ways to attract these helpful creatures is by planting a wide variety of nectar-rich flowers.

Native plants are particularly valuable because they have evolved alongside local wildlife and provide reliable food sources. Emma explains that native shrubs are a fantastic choice if you have space for them. 'Try growing some native shrubs such as hazel. Dogwood or hawthorn are suited to UK growing conditions and are important habitats for birds and insects.'

Garden writer and editor, Kim Stoddart, shares her favourite plant for the job. 'Fennel (pick up bronze fennel, from £11.99 at Marshalls Garden) wins as my hands-down hero plant for the garden because it looks fantastic and also attracts an array of natural pest patrol predators such as ladybirds and lacewings, whose larvae can hoover up thousands of aphids.'

'Hoverflies also love this plant, and they help with pollination and natural pest control to boot. It's not just bronze fennel either. Florence fennel also attracts these beneficial creatures and will often grow on for a few years in the garden, providing lovely zesty foliage to bring to the table.'

Where to buy these native plants:

• Marshalls Garden: A stunning and hardy addition to your space, this beautiful bronze fennel, from £11.99, is well worth considering.
• Crocus: This small hazel, from £29.99, will reward you with gorgeous golden yellow catkins, making it a showstopper to look at.
• Suttons: The clusters of gorgeous white blooms on this hawthorn hedge, from £0.99 at Suttons, give way to red berries, perfect for birds.

4. Build log piles and bug hotels for a variety of predators

Emma says, 'Add log piles to attract beetles, toads and hedgehogs – which help mop up pests.'

Many beneficial creatures need safe spaces to shelter, breed and overwinter. Log piles, bug hotels, and undisturbed corners of the garden can provide ideal habitats.

Ground beetles, for example, are valuable predators that feed on slugs, snail eggs and various garden pests. They thrive in cool, damp environments beneath logs, stones and mulch.

Solitary bees and lacewings also benefit from purpose-built insect hotels – this one from John Lewis is a great, cost-effective choice.

Shop wildlife-friendly must-haves

5. Use companion planting

Companion planting is an age-old gardening technique that involves growing certain plants together to benefit one another.

Some plants attract beneficial insects, while others help, confuse or repel pests. For example, planting nasturtiums near vegetables can draw aphids away from crops, while marigolds are thought to deter some soil pests.

Herbs such as dill, fennel and coriander attract hoverflies and parasitic wasps, both of which feed on common garden pests. A diverse planting scheme also helps reduce large bare areas where weeds can quickly establish themselves. Dense ground cover plants shade the soil, helping retain moisture while naturally suppressing unwanted weed growth.

6. Avoid chemical sprays

One of the most important steps in attracting natural predators is avoiding the use of harsh chemical sprays.

Many pesticides do not distinguish between harmful pests and beneficial wildlife, meaning they can unintentionally kill the very creatures that help keep the garden balanced.

Even products marketed as safe or organic should be used carefully and only when absolutely necessary. Repeated chemical use can disrupt the natural food chain and reduce biodiversity. Instead, focus on prevention and balance. A healthy garden with a mixture of plants, habitats and wildlife is often capable of regulating itself surprisingly well.

7. Don’t eradicate all unwanted plants

This might sound counterintuitive when the aim is a weed-free plot, but as Emma explains, some plants we wouldn’t choose to grow can do important work that will benefit your garden in the long run.

'Allow some nettles and dandelions to flourish. Nettles attract butterflies, while dandelions are perfect for those early pollinators as they flower early in the year.'

In fact, keeping a few weeds in your garden borders is one of this year's biggest trends seen at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

So there you have it. Attracting natural predators into your garden is not about eliminating every weed or pest overnight.

Instead, it is about creating a balanced, thriving environment where wildlife works alongside you to maintain healthy plants and soil. By encouraging birds, frogs, beneficial insects and other helpful creatures, you can reduce the use of chemical controls and enjoy a more sustainable outdoor space.

Small changes can make a big difference, so implement what feels right for you and enjoy the results!

Look, I’m always looking for small ways to make gardening feel less wasteful – especially when it comes to the things we automatically throw in the bin without thinking twice. Orange peel is one of them, and after discovering just how many ways to use orange peel in the garden there actually are, I’ve stopped seeing it as waste altogether.

Most of us juice an orange, toss the skin, and move on – but it turns out those leftover peels can be surprisingly useful in the garden. From deterring pests to enriching compost, there are plenty of simple ways to put them to work instead of sending them straight to the landfill.

What I like about these kinds of budget gardening tips is that they’re simple. Don't believe me? Look this way...

5 ways to use orange peel in the garden

Unlike some internet gardening trends that sound good in theory but don’t really work in practice, we have found five ways to use orange peel in the garden that are genuinely backed by gardeners and horticultural experts.

‘Instead of putting orange peel in the bin, there are lots of easy ways to use it in the garden,’ says Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries.

‘It’s a simple way to reduce waste while giving your garden a gentle, natural boost,’ he adds.

Without any further ado, then...

1. Use orange peel as a natural pest deterrent

Orange peel’s strong citrus scent can help deter common garden pests, including ants and aphids – and even stop cats from treating your borders like a litter tray.

‘The strong citrus scent can help deter ants, aphids and even cats from enjoying the area nearby,’ says Morris. ‘Scatter small pieces around vulnerable plants or rub the peel lightly on pots and edges.’

Christopher O'Donoghue, director of Gardens Revived, also recommends finely chopping peels and scattering them around the base of plants, or steeping them in boiling water for 24 hours to create a homemade citrus spray.

'If you’re tired of cats using your flowerbeds as a litter tray, scatter large pieces of peel. Cats generally dislike the pungent citrus scent and will often choose a different spot,' he adds.

Just bear in mind that, in particularly damp weather, peels left on the soil surface can start to go mouldy before they break down.

2. Make a simple slug and snail trap

This might sound counterintuitive, but orange peel can actually help attract slugs and snails away from your plants naturally.

Christopher explains that slugs and snails are drawn to the sweet smell and moisture of citrus rind. 'So use it to your advantage,' he says. 'Place orange halves or large peels flesh-side down in shady spots around the garden overnight.'

By morning, you’ll often find slugs gathered underneath – making them much easier to relocate away from vulnerable plants like hostas or young vegetable seedlings.

3. Add orange peel to your compost heap

There’s a long-running myth that citrus peel shouldn’t go in compost bins, but experts say that’s not true for standard compost heaps.

‘Orange peel is rich in nitrogen, making it a useful “green” addition to a compost heap,’ says Morris. ‘Chop it up first so it breaks down faster and mix it well with browns like dry leaves or cardboard.’

Christopher adds that citrus peels also contain valuable nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which can enrich finished compost over time.

'Just make sure you cut peels into smaller pieces first, as their waxy outer coating naturally slows decomposition,' he warns.

4. Turn orange peel into biodegradable seed pots

If you’re trying to cut down on plastic in the garden, hollowed-out orange halves can make surprisingly effective seed starter pots.

‘Halved orange skins can double as biodegradable seed pots,’ says Morris. ‘Fill them with compost, sow your seeds, and plant the whole thing directly into the soil once seedlings are ready.’

Christopher recommends 'poking a small drainage hole in the base first before filling with seed compost' as, once transplanted, the peel gradually decomposes into the soil while feeding the young plant at the same time.

5. Use orange peel to enrich soil around acid-loving plants

Orange peel can also be useful for acid-loving plants, thanks to its naturally acidic properties.

'Dried, ground-up peel can give a gentle boost to plants including blueberries, hydrangeas, azaleas and camellias,' promises Christopher, who notes that, while orange peel won’t dramatically change your soil pH overnight, burying small pieces beneath the soil surface can slowly improve soil structure and add nutrients back into the ground as the peel decomposes.

Morris agrees: ‘If you bury small pieces of peel in your soil, they’ll gradually break down and add nutrients back into the ground, improving soil structure over time.’

FAQs

Look, we get it; your juiced oranges might not look like much once the middle has been gobbled up, but it’s one of those kitchen leftovers that can quietly earn its keep in the garden.

Whether you use it to enrich compost, deter pests or start seeds, it’s an easy way to make gardening feel a little more sustainable – and all without spending a penny. Win!

Beer traps are one of the most popular hacks for keeping slug populations at bay, but apparently, they can sometimes have a completely different effect.

There are plenty of ways to keep slugs at bay naturally, each with its own merits and drawbacks. Traditionally, beer traps are used to lure and drown slugs in the garden – so it’s not the most humane form of pest control – but according to experts, they can actually worsen the problem.

Here’s why pest experts are warning against beer traps right now, with a predicted 'slugageddon' on the horizon – and a few alternative ways to tackle slugs as we enter peak gardening season.

A beer trap, in theory, should lure slugs out of hiding and to their demises – but if your garden isn’t already dealing with a huge infestation, it can bring about an even bigger problem.

‘Some traditional garden tricks can help in small situations, but they’re not always a complete solution,’ says Tessa Cobley, plant pest expert and owner of Ladybird Plantcare.

‘Beer traps are a commonly suggested remedy, but they can sometimes attract even more slugs into the area.’

So, beer traps can actually do the opposite of what you’re trying to achieve, by inviting even more slugs into your garden. It’s a bit like putting out an iced bun for the wasps, I suppose – it might contain the problem in one area, but it can make your garden a hotspot for the critters.

What should you do instead, then?

Well, you could learn how to use nematodes on slugs (you can pre-order Nemaslug 2.0 Biological Slug Killer from Marshalls Garden). This effective natural control releases natural predators into the soil – you simply need to water it onto the target areas.

‘If slug numbers are already high, it’s usually better to tackle the population in the soil first using biological methods like nematodes and then use barriers as an extra line of defence for vulnerable plants,’ says Tessa.

The experts at nematode supplier Nemasys are actually predicting a 'slugageddon' this year.

‘This year’s mild conditions have allowed more slugs to survive and remain active for longer – and lay more eggs in the soil ready to hatch this spring!' they explained.

‘The combination of wet soil, abundant organic matter, and ideal shelter conditions has created the perfect environment for slugs to breed and feed. As a result, many experts are predicting a significant increase in slug numbers – with some already dubbing it a potential 'slugageddon'.’

To protect pots from slugs, I usually use copper tape like this reel from Amazon to line the outer edges. You could also try the copper scourer hack, which is surprisingly effective.

What to use instead

The beer trap for slugs warning carries a lot of weight, but there are plenty of other ways to keep the pests at bay. You can even plant slug and snail-repellent plants around vulnerable ones, if you're all for the natural approach.

We don't mean to add yet another thing to your to-do list, but it’s time to protect your plants from slugs and snails in April. Unless, of course, you fancy the look of chomped-up leaves and foliage come summer.

Yes, April is when shoots appear, seedlings are planted out, and borders begin to fill with fresh, tender growth. All of that combined with springtime showers, though? Well, it creates the perfect environment for slugs and snails to feed and multiply – often before plants they love have had a chance to properly establish.

Thankfully, there's plenty you can do now to make a real difference to how well your garden copes with these persistent pests over the coming months. The best defence is a good offence, after all.

How to protect your plants from slugs and snails in April

Young shoots, leafy vegetables and newly planted ornamentals are particularly vulnerable at this time of year, which is why it's so important you take care to protect your plants from slugs and snails in April.

'April is when slugs and snails become more active, as warmer temperatures and spring rain create perfect feeding conditions,' says Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries.

Tessa Cobley, plant pest expert and owner of Ladybird Plantcare, agrees. 'Slugs are simple creatures – give them moisture, shelter and something tasty to eat, and they’ll happily move in. And if you’ve recently planted out tender plants and the weather has been wet, you’ve essentially rolled out the red carpet for them.'

Thankfully, there are plenty of things you can do to stop these critters in their tracks. Let's dive on in, shall we?

1. Try beneficial nematodes

According to Tessa, the best way to protect your plants from slugs and snails in April is to use beneficial nematodes (you can pick up NemaKnights biological nematodes for £26.99 on Amazon).

'These are naturally occurring microscopic worms that live in the soil and act as a form of biological pest control, and, when applied to the garden, they actively seek out young slugs in the soil and release a natural bacterium that stops them feeding,' she explains.

'The clever part is that they’re extremely specific – they only target the pest they’re designed for and won’t harm birds, pets, hedgehogs or other garden wildlife.'

Tessa adds that nematodes are very easy to apply. 'Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to use them, then mix the powder with water according to the instructions, and apply the solution to your garden using a watering can – just like watering your plants.'

2. Try copper tape and slug rings

Some traditional garden tricks can help protect your plants from slugs and snails in April, but they’re not always a complete solution.

'Copper tape (this copper slug tape is my humane recommendation, £5.89 at Amazon) or slug rings (like these copper rings mixed pack, £28.99 from Amazon) can work well for protecting individual pots and containers, as slugs tend to avoid crossing the copper barrier. They’re especially useful for patio planters or prized plants you want to shield,' says Tessa.

Shop slug and snail defence essentials

3. Avoid beer traps

According to Tessa, it's best to avoid beer traps if you want to protect your plants from slugs and snails in April.

'Beer traps are another commonly suggested remedy, but they can sometimes attract even more slugs into the area,' she says.

She adds: 'If slug numbers are already high, it’s usually better to tackle the population in the soil first using biological methods like nematodes and then use barriers as an extra line of defence for vulnerable plants.'

FAQs

Look, we get it; it’s easy to wait until you spot the damage, but by then, slugs are already one step ahead. Taking action in April, while conditions are just starting to favour them, puts you back in control and helps protect your plants when they’re at their most vulnerable. Or you could start growing some of these plants they hate and that actually repel them, to add another layer of protection.

Time to get to work, we say...

Mary Berry’s new gardening book is an absolute treasure trove of green-fingered anecdotes and wisdom, and among the pages, I found a few invaluable tips for keeping slugs at bay.

As it turns out, Mary has a secret recipe: a garlic spray that repels slugs and snails. I found it in My Gardening Life, which you can buy from Amazon. It’s a joy to read, featuring beautiful imagery of Mary’s own garden and insights into her gardening learnings, mistakes, and favourite plants over the years. After spotting slug trails on my patio over the last week, I’m finding Mary’s slug and snail deterrent tips especially useful at the moment.

The garlic spray is a fantastic way to get rid of slugs naturally, no chemicals needed – and in Mary’s words, it’s dead easy.

If you’re into companion planting, you’ll know that garden plant pests tend to dislike the smell of garlic. It’s often planted next to vulnerable crops to protect them from slugs, snails and the like.

It makes sense, then, that a garlic spray is an effective weapon against the critters – and that’s exactly what Mary Berry recommends.

‘I like to use this homemade garlic spray to deter snails and slugs from eating my hostas,’ Mary says in My Gardening Life.

‘Place two whole bulbs of garlic in a saucepan containing two litres of water, heat, and simmer them until the garlic bulbs are soft and squidgy. Remove the bulbs, mash them with a fork, then sieve into a bottle with a lid. It’s dead easy.’

The resulting bottle of garlic solution is a bit like a concentrated plant feed that needs to be diluted before use.

‘When you want to use it, dilute two tablespoons of the solution in five litres of water and spray or water it over your hostas once a week,’ Mary advises.

It's as simple as that! And it isn’t just slugs and snails who will avoid the garlic spray – it’s a brilliant way to get rid of aphids and other common garden pests, too.

Mary also mentioned the merits of grit and gravel for tackling slugs and snails – particularly around her delphiniums. Conveniently, horticultural grit is readily available at Amazon.

‘The biggest problem we have with them is slugs and snails, which will strip plants to almost nothing overnight,’ Mary says in her book. ‘We put a deep ring of gravel around the base of plants (we have plenty spare as we use it on the drive).’

As a last resort, Mary says she uses slug pellets. Eco-friendly slug pellets exist, like these Vitax Slug Gone Wool Pellets from Amazon, which are safe for pets and wildlife.

Slug defence kit

There are also lots of bedding plants that slugs hate, if you're in for some strategic planting.

If you've been wondering how to stop pests eating your herbs, you're facing one of the most frustrating gardening challenges. Watching your carefully tended basil, mint, and parsley getting devoured by unwanted visitors isn't fun, especially if you've been readying to harvest your herbs to use in the kitchen.

According to the experts, protecting your garden herb ideas from pests doesn't have to mean reaching for harsh chemicals that you don't want near your dinner ingredients. Their top tips include attracting natural predators and utilising organic deterrents to keep garden nuisances at bay.

I've asked the pros to share their tried-and-tested methods for how to stop pests eating your herbs, so you can enjoy a thriving, pest-free harvest all summer long.

1. Encourage natural predators

A lesser known tip for how to stop pests eating your herbs is to use natural predators. For instance, you can try planting some of the plants that attract ladybirds, such as marigold, yarrow, and cosmos. Any aphids feeding off these plants will be eaten by the ladybirds, which will in turn keep the little green pests off your herbs too.

'Another way to attract small predators like ladybirds and lacewings is by installing a bug hotel nearby to make your garden more wildlife-friendly,' Tim West, pest control expert at Merlin Environmental suggests. This insect house, £7.99 from Amazon, would be the ideal aid.

Small garden pond ideas are particularly effective at attracting frogs to your garden, which will help get rid of slugs, spiders, and caterpillars. You'll also get a pretty water feature to boot.

2. Add copper tape to pots

For potted herbs, make the most of the having a solid surface and stick copper tape to the pots. You can buy this relatively cheap - there's a 20mm x 25m roll of copper tape available on Amazon for just £6.99.

'Copper tape is a simple, chemical-free solution for getting rid of slugs,' Sophie Thorogood, technical training manager at Pest-Stop says. 'Slugs dislike the sensation of crawling over copper, so placing a band around pots can stop them in their tracks.'

3. Try organic deterrents

Aside from adding pest-repellent plants to your garden, you can use organic produce to deter pests away from your herbs as well. 'Placing crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base of your herb plants will deter crawling pests,' Tim explains. 'Neem oil spray can also help to control certain flies without harming the insects you do want around.'

Crushed eggshells act as a barrier, preventing slugs and snails from crawling over the soil and onto your herbs. But, this won't work for flying pests and smaller insects. For these, try the DD Organic Neem Oil Spray, £12.49 at Amazon, which works against aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, and scale insects.

FAQs

How to stop insects eating leaves?

There are several methods you can try if pesky insects are eating your plants' leaves. Companion planting is a popular one, whereby you strategically plant certain herbs together to reduce pest activity.

'Marigolds are thought to be effective at keeping insects like aphids away from plants, and their brightly coloured flowers can attract pollinators to improve garden health,' Richard Barker, commercial director of LBS Horticulture says. 'Most insects will be repelled by members of the allium family, such as garlic, onions and chives, due to their strong scent and should be planted around high value plants.'

What can you spray for herbs?

Garlic spray is a great natural insecticide, and particularly helpful for getting rid of aphids and mites that have taken a liking to your herbs.

'Garlic contains sulphur compounds, and has an active compound known as Allicin that is responsible for the strong smell that repels insects,' Richard explains. 'Homemade garlic spray can be applied every two weeks, and like neem oil it will need to be reapplied after rain.'

Now you know how to stop pests eating your herbs, you can look forward to enjoying a fresh harvest all summer long.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve been seeing ants everywhere at the moment, and I’m sure we can all agree that there’s nothing pleasant about seeing a flock of ants scurrying around your kitchen. But if you’ve been looking for an easy deterrent, I’ve got you covered, as cleaning experts are urging you to add cinnamon to your floor next time you mop.

While there are many ways to get rid of ants, one of the best things you can do is prevent them in the first place. Ants are sensitive to certain scents, and one smell they can’t stand is the scent of cinnamon.

Adding a spoonful of cinnamon to your floor cleaner before giving it a whirl with your best mop will not only make your floors sparkle, but keep ants away, too. Here’s why.

How to get rid of ants with cinnamon

Cinnamon is a great deterrent for household pests, and ants are no exception. Its strong scent disrupts the ants' pheromone trails, which makes it harder for them to navigate and locate food. Because of this, ants will naturally avoid areas with this scent, keeping them out of your home.

‘Adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cinnamon oil to your floor cleaner is a simple, chemical-free trick that can help keep ants at bay, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and doorways,’ explains Katie Lilywhite, AO’s floorcare expert.

Ground cinnamon can be picked up at your local supermarket for less than £1 (if you don’t already have some kicking around your cupboard), while 100ml of cinnamon oil can be picked up for £7.58 at Amazon.

‘Alternatively, if you are using cinnamon sticks, you can boil them in water for around 10-15 minutes. Once boiling, let the water cool slightly before removing the sticks. You can then add the infused water to your mop bucket. This method helps to infuse the water with the scent of cinnamon, while the stick itself doesn’t break down into the liquid, reducing the risk of grittiness,’ says Liam Cleverdon, Flooring Expert and Director at Flooring King.

However, you should also complete a patch test to ensure that cinnamon doesn’t stain your floor before using it to mop.

‘Cinnamon can be slightly abrasive when not mixed in properly, so it’s important to be mindful of what material your flooring is before considering this method. I’d avoid using this hack on unfinished wood or natural stone, as there is more potential for slight staining, residue, or damage due to the natural properties of the floor. It’s always best to test any new cleaning method in an inconspicuous area first,’ says Liam.

It’s important to note that this method won’t get rid of ants, but it will deter them and reduce the amount in your home. It’s a cheap and simple method, but if you’re still struggling with ants in your home, here are some more alternatives.

Cinnamon will deter ants and make your home smell delicious - because of that, I'd say it's definitely worth a try.

Did you know ladybirds are a great natural method of pest control? And if you want this little red bug guarding your plants this summer, experts have revealed the plants they love most.

Ladybirds are a gardener's best friend, which is why you need to know how to attract ladybirds to your garden. They love munching on garden pest plants, such as aphids, and keeping pest populations under control, and they can even pollinate plants.

If you want a flourishing wildlife garden and to let these brilliant bugs feel at home in your garden, experts have revealed the five plants you need to attract ladybirds.

1. Dill and Fennel

Ladybirds love strong-smelling plants, so having a thriving herb garden is a great place to start. Fennel (£5.99 for a pot at Crocus) and Dill (£2.99 at Amazon) both smell delicious to ladybirds.

‘These plants are fantastic for a couple of reasons. Firstly, they tend to attract aphids, which are a favourite meal for ladybirds. So, by growing these, you’re essentially rolling out the red carpet for ladybirds by making sure there’s plenty for them to eat,’ says Luke Newnes, new build gardening specialist at Hillarys.

‘Secondly, many of these plants, especially herbs like dill and fennel, have clusters of small flowers that offer nectar and pollen. While ladybirds are mainly carnivorous, they will supplement their diet with nectar and pollen, especially in early spring when other food sources might be scarce. The flowers also provide shelter and a safe place for ladybirds to lay their eggs.’

2. Nasturtium

‘As well as attracting ladybirds, nasturtiums act as trap plants to attract aphids away from crops in your garden. Ladybirds will feed on the nectar of nasturtium flowers, and they can also eat the aphids that are attracted to the flowers,’ explains Richard Barker, commercial director of LBS Horticulture.

Nasturtium flowers from June to October, but you can sow the seeds right now in a sunny spot (you can get nasturtium seeds for £3.49 at Amazon). This fast-growing plant can start producing flowers in just a couple of months, so you can enjoy these pretty flowers this year.

3. Marigolds

Marigolds are a superhero plant that is renowned for controlling aphids. Not only are their bold red and orange petals beautiful, but this companion plant attracts pollinators and insects that eat bugs to your gardens.

‘Flowers such as marigolds, nasturtiums and yarrow are known to bring in aphids, which might sound bad, but actually helps draw in ladybirds looking for a food source. Interplanting these with your veg or flowers creates a natural pest control cycle that keeps your plants healthier in the long run,’ Nick Wood, horticulture expert from online garden centre Gardening Express.

Marigolds are sown from March to May, but you can buy bedding plants (for example, these £10.99 marigold plants at Robert Dyas) now.

4. Yarrow

Yarrow is a beautiful, long-lasting perennial that is available in many colours and varieties, making it a great choice for both attracting ladybirds and filling your garden with colour.

These gorgeous flowers are also rich in nectar and have dense petals, meaning they provide great shelter for ladybirds. You can grow yarrow (£2 at Sarah Raven) from seed now.

5. Cosmos

‘Cosmos have an extended blooming period, which can provide ladybirds and their larvae with consistent sources of pollen and nectar over a long period of time,’ says Richard.

Cosmos is a summer-flowering plant which means you need to plant cosmos in early spring. However, if you want to welcome this pretty plant to your garden now, you can purchase a cosmos bedding plant (such as this Apollo Lovesong variety, £14.95 at Sarah Raven)

What you need

You don't have to reply on plants alone, here are some other ways to invite the helpful ladybird into your garden.

Not only will these gorgeous plants fill your garden with colour, they will also attract ladybirds and keep aphids at bay.

We're months away from peak pest season but there are still a few garden pests to watch out for in winter, because not every critter shies away from the cold weather.

Not all garden plant pests are out and about at this time of the year, but other animals are still active. And while you're learning how to pest-proof your home for winter, you might need to think about the garden, too.

'There are many common garden pests that are active year-round and can cause costly damage to your garden buildings,' says Sam Jenkinson, garden shed expert at garden building retailer Tiger. 'In fact, during the winter they often seek out residential and commercial properties to provide warmth and shelter.'

We've rounded up the most active garden pests to watch out for in winter, with a few tips from garden experts to help us limit any damage. You might think pest is too harsh a term for some of the animals on this list, and we get it — they aren't all villains — but if your garden becomes a hotspot, they can deal plants and buildings a lot of damage.

What you'll need

1. Rats

Most garden owners will have to learn how to get rid of rats at some point, and sadly, they're one of the main garden pests to watch out for in winter, too.

'Rats remain a common problem during the colder months,' says Sam. 'They can chew through wood, plastic, and wiring.'

Left unchecked, rats can cause unsightly and hazardous damage to sheds and other garden buildings. So, how do we keep them at bay?

'Block any potential entry points and ensure food sources are securely stored,' Sam advises. 'Regularly cleaning and decluttering garden buildings, along with removing debris like leaves and sticks, helps to reduce their appeal.'

2. Mice

Mice are also active during the winter months, and they're especially drawn to the shelter of sheds and other undercover spaces. So, as well as thinking about how to keep mice out of the house, you'll need to consider your garden buildings.

Make sure gaps and holes in your garden buildings are blocked and food sources are hidden away. Keeping on top of general plant maintenance can go a long way, too. 'Trimming nearby vegetation can eliminate potential hiding spots,' says Sam.

A few pest-repellent plants can also help to ward mice away. 'Planting peppermint around garden structures is another effective deterrent, as the scent repels rodents and adds a touch of beauty with its purple flowers in summer,' Sam explains.

3. Grubs

Not every winter garden pest has fur. Grubs might be hibernating right now, but if they aren't dealt with before spring, they can damage lawns and plant roots.

'Grubs will be tucked up somewhere warm for the winter, normally hibernating as pupae underground or in pots,' explains Annelise Brilli, horticultural copywriter at Thompson & Morgan. 'Their hiding places are deliberately hard to find, and by the end of winter, they’ll have fattened up and be ready to spring into action, chomping through your precious plants.'

The most natural solution for getting rid of grubs is inviting beneficial wildlife into your garden.

'Encourage their natural enemies, who will be much more adept at finding these pests than you,' says Annelise. 'Attract birds to your garden with bird feeders and they’ll also mop up those energy and protein-rich larvae!'

4. Foxes

Foxes are a striking sight, but if you've noticed nibble marks on your garden buildings, you'll probably need to brainstorm ways to keep foxes out of your garden. You'll just need to make sure you're deterring foxes legally, as per the RSPCA's latest warning.

'Foxes tend to dig under garden structures to create their dens during the winter,' says Sam. 'They also often gnaw on wooden doors and foundations.'

So, what are the most environmentally friendly ways to keep them away?

'Deter foxes by blocking entry points with wire mesh, securing food sources, and using motion-activated lights or mixing water and vinegar and spraying it around your garden,' Sam advises.

5. Squirrels

Squirrels might be fluffy and adorable, but they're also one of the main garden pests to watch out for in winter — especially if you're wondering how to protect your bird feeder from rats and squirrels or how to stop squirrels from digging up bulbs.

'Over the winter, squirrels can cause damage by chewing on wood, plastic and electrical wires,' says Sam. 'Their gnawing can weaken wooden structures and pose fire hazards.'

'Prevent squirrels from entering by sealing entry points with wire mesh and removing food sources like bird feeders.'

If you're committed to caring for wildlife through the winter, keep the bird feeders but position them out of reach, or invest in a squirrel-proof bird feeder instead.

FAQs

What bug comes out in winter?

When it comes to insects, the most common garden pests are usually inactive outdoors during the colder months, but that doesn't mean your indoor plants are safe. In fact, fungus gnats and overwintering pests like aphids stick around and can remain active indoors in the winter.

That's why learning how to get rid of fungus gnats and other garden plant pests is important all year round, especially if you own a greenhouse. Consider getting rid of overwintering pests before spring arrives to limit future plant damage.

There aren't many garden pests to watch out for in winter, but keeping an eye out for any damage will help you protect your garden buildings and plants in time for a fresh start in the spring.

The circle of life is all about that predator/prey balance. And if you’re looking to protect your plants and produce in your garden, it’s well worth knowing how to use natural predators to get rid of garden pests.

Yes, you probably already know that there are so many garden pests you shouldn’t ignore, from the snails eating your plants to the slugs treating your vegetable patch as an all-you-can-eat buffet. While you could choose non-biological methods to manage these pests, these harmful products quickly mess up the natural ecosystem in your outside space.

As Morris Hankinson, Director of Hopes Grove Nurseries, explains, 'By far the best way to encourage natural predators to your garden is to create a biodiverse garden with an ecosystem that fully, or at least mostly, takes care of itself.' So, this is how to use natural predators to tackle garden pests.

What you’ll need

Step-by-step

1. Diagnose the problem

While encouraging wildlife and natural predators in your garden will always work in your favour, you need to be strategic if you’re looking to get rid of specific garden pests.

So, you first need to diagnose your problem. This is often a case of wandering around your garden and making a note of its symptoms. Are the brassicas in your vegetable garden covered in chomp marks? Can you visibly see the little critters crawling on your roses?

When you’ve spotted the problem pests, you then need to know exactly what you’re dealing with so that you can choose the right natural predators for the job. After all, the natural predator that will get rid of aphids might not necessarily stop caterpillars from eating your plants.

2. Decide which natural predators you need

Different natural predators feast on different pests, so it’s best to understand what these predators will eat in your garden before encouraging them. Some natural predators and their prey include:

• Birds: Natural predators of slugs, snails, whiteflies, spiders, caterpillars, cabbage root flies, and earwigs.
• Toads: Natural predators of spiders, worms, mosquitoes, slugs, and ants.
• Ladybirds: Natural predators of aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs.
• Ground beetles: Natural predators of slugs, snails, caterpillars, and larvae.
• Spiders: Natural predators of ants, cockroaches, mosquitoes, aphids, and flies.
• Lacewings: Natural predators of aphids, larvae, eggs, and young caterpillars.
• Nematodes: Nematodes can be bought for countless pests. But if you’re going to use nematodes to control the pests in your garden, you’ll need to choose the right type of nematode for the job.

3. Encourage or release these natural predators

When you know which pests you want to get rid of and which natural predators will get rid of them, you can then start encouraging or releasing them into your garden. How you do this ultimately depends on the predator you want to use, but the main aim is to create a wildlife garden that will do the hard work for you. Ways to do this include:

Release nematodes - As Matthew Martin from nematode producer, Nemasys explains, ‘Nematodes are naturally occurring microscopic worms. These tiny worms attack, invade, and kill targeted species, offering advanced biological control of a wide range of pests.’ You will need to manually add nematodes to your garden, and you can do this by mixing your nematode product with water and then pouring over the pest-affected areas.

Choose the right plants - As well as planting pest-repellent plants to keep your garden free from pests, you can also choose to add plants that will encourage these natural predators. Morris says, 'Hedging and trees are essential for nesting, berries are a great food source for birds, and if you have ivy, you may see moths which bats will swoop in to eat. Everything has a place and will work together if you can create a haven for wildlife.'

Add bird boxes and feeders: If you want to know how to attract birds that eat slugs or other garden pests, the general consensus is that you need to offer them three things: food, shelter, and water. And while the pests in your garden offer food, you should also make your garden more desirable by adding bird boxes, feeders, and baths.

Build a pond: If you’ve always loved the many pond ideas out there, building one could finally solve your pest problems. Of course, you don’t need to build a giant pond to encourage pond life if you don’t have the space or the budget. Simply filling a barrel with water and adding in some water plants can often be enough to encourage natural predators such as toads.

Create a bug hotel: Sometimes you need to encourage critters to get rid of critters, and that’s why building a bug hotel can help you get rid of pests. The dark, damp hotel with little holes is the perfect space for natural predators like spiders, beetles, ladybirds, and more.

4. Look after your garden

By adding the above to your garden, you should be able to use natural predators for garden pests relatively easily. But you also need to look after your garden in the process - and this involves topping up your preventative measures if needs be.

For example, you need to reapply nematodes every six weeks or so for them to be effective, and you need to get rid of pond algae if you’re going to build your own pond. Because of this, you should keep an eye on your garden during the weeks following your changes.

The idea is that you create a complete ecosystem where the natural food chain will reduce nuisance pests without harming any of the beneficial insects in your garden. If you notice things aren’t changing or seem to be getting worse, however, you may need to reassess the situation.

5. Be patient

While using natural predators to get rid of the pests in your garden can be extremely effective, it’s important to understand that you won’t see changes overnight. You need to be patient, and it can take or even months to encourage wildlife - especially if you choose to do so during the winter months when many potential predators are hibernating.

In some cases, it may even take a whole year to create this new pest-free ecosystem in your garden. So, don’t be discouraged if you’re still spotting pests in your outdoor space, and avoid using anything that could harm your efforts.

As Luke Dejahang, Director and Gardening Expert at Crown Pavilions says, ‘Avoid using chemical pesticides, as they can harm beneficial predators along with the pests. Instead, opt for organic or natural pest control methods to keep predator populations healthy.’

FAQs

When should I apply nematodes to my garden?

Ideally, you should use nematodes in the spring or the autumn, as this is when they are most effective. And while you can apply nematodes to your garden during the winter or summer, it’s highly unlikely that they’ll have the effect that you were hoping for.

Matthew Martin from Nemasys also adds, ‘The product should be applied when the temperature of the soil is within the right range (usually between 5°C and 30°C, depending on nematode species) and when UV light levels are low, so ideally early in the morning or at dusk.’

However, you should always check the instructions of the specific nematodes that you’re using before making any firm decisions.

What is the use of natural enemies to control pests?

Using natural enemies and predators to control pests in your garden offers you a chance to get rid of pests without having to use potentially harmful products. By limiting your use of chemicals or non-biological controls, you can maintain a happy and healthy garden.

This will not only get rid of pests but will also help your garden’s ecosystem as a whole. These predators can also pollinate your flowers and even help you grow your own produce.

Now you know how to use natural predators for garden pests, it’s time to start putting your plans in motion.

With the warmer weather here, most of us are finally getting to soak up time in the garden, which includes admiring our potted plants. But if you've noticed an unwelcome hoard of visitors also enjoying the plant pots, you're probably anxious to find out, do ants harm plants in pots?

Ants can be a nuisance, whether scurrying across the patio or somehow finding their way into the kitchen. Although you can learn how to get rid of ants, it's important to establish whether or not they're going to cause your plants to suffer first.

We don't want our energy growing vegetables or flowers in pots to be wasted, least of all by an unsightly herd of ants. Establishing what these pests might do to your container garden ideas is vital for them to thrive all summer long.

We've asked experts, 'do ants harm plants in pots?', so we can understand what the presence of these pests means, and act accordingly. We've also gathered some expert tips on how to get rid of ants in plant pots, so you don't need to be bothered by these little nuisances going forward.

Why are there ants in my plant pots?

If your potted plants are playing house to ants, it's a likely indication that there is something other than the plant that has drawn them there. Ants go where they can find food and shelter, but they aren't interested in eating potted plants themselves. Instead, it's much more likely that there is an infestation of pest insects within the soil, which the ants have picked up on. 

Aphids, mites, mealybugs, and a variety of other tiny pests that we can't really see are probably enjoying the dark, moist environment of the soil in your plant pots. And so, the ants join the party too, leading to a less than ideal situation where ant colonies start to get comfortable living inside our potted plants.

Aphids are the most likely cause of ants in your plant pots, as they secrete honeydew, a sweet substance which ants love.

Do ants harm plants in pots?

But the question is, do ants harm plants in pots? Or is it safe for them to roam in our potted plants freely?

Though ants don't cause direct harm to potted plants - because they don't eat them - they can cause indirect harm to your plants in a couple of different ways. Firstly, if an entire colony decides to make a home within the pot, this is going to disrupt the plant's root structure, leaving the plant more prone to wilting.

Secondly, ants will try to protect aphids from predators such as ladybirds and beetles, so they can keep enjoying their honeydew. And aphids can cause direct damage to plants, because they feed on the sap found in leaves and stems. 

'Ants are not usually harmful to potted plants but can indicate other issues like aphid infestations,' summarises Hannah Rowson, Assistant Garden Centre Manager, J. Parker's. 'Also, if ants decide to build a nest in your flower pots, they can disturb the roots, though this is unlikely as pots are watered so often.'

So, ants can in fact cause damage to plants in pots, despite them not directly harming the plant itself. You may also just prefer not to have ant colonies living inside your plant pots, because they're a bit unsightly and come in such high numbers. 

There are some steps you can take to keep ants out of plant pots, which will also help with getting rid of aphids too.

How to keep ants out of plant pots

To keep ants out of plant pots, there are a few different methods you can try. Firstly, you could use a natural repellent, such as citrus peels, cinnamon, peppermint oil, or coffee grounds - an ideal solution if you've been wondering what to do with leftover coffee grounds as well. Ants don't like the smell of any of these things, so if they're present in plant pots, they'll be more likely to move on. 

White vinegar is another natural ant repellent. Aside from not liking the smell, it can kill ants in higher doses. 

Another option is to use a form of biological pest control, such as a nematode. 'Nematodes are small but mighty creatures that do not kill the ants, but simply disrupt their nests and encourage them to pack up and leave the treated area,' says Matt Martin, Nemasys Beneficial Nematodes. 'Ants do not tolerate nematodes so will quickly move on and away from the garden.'

You can find nematodes that were made to deal with specific pests, such as ants (or slugs, if you want to know how to get rid of slugs too). By introducing the nematode into the soil, pest populations such as ants won't be able to survive.

There are also sticky ant traps you can buy that will work as well. These are usually little bits of plastic that are placed into the plant pot, with a sticky surface that the ants will get stuck on when they move across it. This is one of the less humane options for how to get rid of ants, and we'd recommend trying the other methods first. Plus, the ant trap will be visual, which can spoil the aesthetic of plant pots.

You might not feel the need to get rid of the ants unless they are starting to dominate, and causing visible distress to your plants. They can be a harmless part of a garden's ecosystem, and even valuable. 'Ants play a beneficial role in the ecosystem by aerating the soil, breaking down organic material, and even controlling other pest populations,' Hannah says. 

FAQs

Why are there so many ants in my garden?

'If there are a lot of ants in your garden, it's probably providing an ideal environment for them,' gardening expert Hannah says. 'Ants are drawn to places where they can find food, water, and shelter. Gardens often provide all three, with their abundance of plants, moisture, and small crevices.'

Gardens with a high plant density will unfortunately attract a lot of ants. Aphids are a primary food source for ants, and as aphids feed off the sap from healthy foliage - healthy plants will eventually lead to the presence of ants. 

Things you can do to minimise their presence include keeping your garden free of food and water whenever possible, as this will encourage the ants to move elsewhere. It's helpful to know how to clean garden stones properly, so ants aren't encouraged to make a home in cracks and crevices.

What do ants hate the most?

'Ants are generally bothered by strong scents and substances that disrupt their trails,' says Hannah. 'For instance, they tend to avoid vinegar, citrus peels, and essential oils like peppermint and eucalyptus. These fragrances can interfere with their ability to communicate and navigate, making them effective natural repellents.'

Anything with a fragrant scent is disliked by ants, so this can include coffee grounds as well. You can also try lacing black pepper, cayenne and garlic in plant pots to encourage ants to move on. 

So now you know the answer to 'do ants harm plants in pots?', will you be doing anything to tackle your ant problem? Remember, if an ant colony has made a home in a potted plant, sooner or later the plant will start to suffer, so it's always best to tackle the problem head-on. 

When we talk about garden pests, a couple of common culprits come to mind – snails, slugs and caterpillars are often our main focus during the growing season, but there are a host of other garden plant pests to be on the lookout for throughout the year which you might have overlooked.

While we enjoy seeing our garden ideas to fruition, so do these critters – and, left unchecked, they can wreak havoc on our plants.

Based on the critters I've spotted in my own garden, and feedback from fellow gardeners, I've put together a guide to the garden plant pests you might be missing, with expert tips on keeping them away from your plants.

1. Aphids

Also known as blackfly or greenfly, depending on the type, aphids are one of the most common garden plant pests. They suck the sap from plant veins, weakening the plant and distorting growth. You'll find them on a variety of plants, from peas and beans to roses, so knowing how to get rid of aphids is paramount to a healthier garden.

Luckily, they have a common natural predator: ladybirds. With a few companion planting ideas up your sleeve, you can attract ladybirds to your garden (they love marigolds, for example) and let them do some of the work for you.

'The humble ladybird is a much-loved companion of the gardener due to its fondness for aphids,' says the expert team at Harrod Horticultural. 'Both adult ladybirds (Adalia bipunctata) and their larvae love nothing more than dining out on this prevalent pest and can consume large numbers every day.

'Lacewings and hoverfly larvae also like to visit the aphid café, along with various beetles. Attracting pest predators like these could be the best thing you do in the garden.'

2. Carrot fly

There's nothing quite like finally pulling up your carrot roots and bringing them into the kitchen, but sometimes, the harvests just aren't what we were expecting. Rusty brown scars and tunnels inside the roots indicate that carrot fly got there first. Sometimes, you'll even find the maggots still inside the carrots when you cut into them.

'The first signs above ground that something bad is happening below can be seen on the foliage, which starts to take on reddish tints, later turning yellow,' says Annelise Brilli, Thompson & Morgan's horticultural expert. 'Plants become weak and smaller seedlings die off.

'The best control I have found is covering crops with fine 1.35mm mesh. It works brilliantly, but you do need to rotate your carrot plot around, as carrot fly pupae can overwinter in the ground.

'Carrot fly love cow parsley and will hop off the flowers onto your crop. If there is a lot of cow parsley nearby, it is best to avoid sowing carrots when they are in flower – wait until the beginning of June.

'The other problem is that people often sow carrots far too thickly, and the smell released when thinning attracts carrot flies. It is a fiddly operation sowing such small seed, but you only need one every 2cm.'

3. Asparagus beetle

You'll probably only see this garden plant pest if you're growing asparagus, but in large numbers, they can wreak havoc on the vegetables.

Just under a centimetre in length, these flying critters are fairly easy to spot – watch out for their bold markings and pick them off of your plants when you notice them. Small populations aren't usually a cause for concern, but if the bark has been eaten away from the stem and the plant begins to yellow, you'll know the insects have become a problem.

Make sure you throw away old stems at the end of the growing season to get rid of any overwintering beetles.

4. Lily beetle

As the name suggests, lily beetles feed on the leaves of fritillaries and, well, lilies.

Though it isn't the most destructive garden plant pest on our list, the lily beetle can affect the development of future bulbs if left unchecked. Otherwise, plants usually continue to flower normally.

The vibrant bodies are easy to spot, but the larvae are a bit trickier to discern – they're usually covered in their own frass (that's excrement, to you and I).

These pests are leaf-eaters, so you'll probably notice holes in the foliage. However, mature larvae also feed on seed pods, stems and petals. If the foliage has been stripped away, there's a good chance the plants won't flower as well (or at all) next season.

You can remove the beetles by hand when you spot them, but you should also continue encouraging wildlife into the garden. A few garden pond ideas can work wonders at attracting frogs and toads to your space.

5. Mealybugs

Mealybugs are another sap-sucking garden plant pest to watch out for. Though more commonly found in greenhouses and on houseplants, they can also be found on some outdoor plants, like laburnum.

These critters produce a waxy white substance on leaf axils. The damage can cause the leaves to drop, or stunt the growth of the plant as a whole.

To manage this pest, try to keep on top of pruning, removing any dead leaves from your plants which might be ridden with eggs.

7. Earwigs

Much like us, earwigs are drawn to the prettiest plants in our gardens: dahlias and clematis, to name a few. They'll feed on the petals and younger leaves, and while they're trickier to spot during the day, you can inspect your plants at night to catch them in the act.

These critters aren't all bad, though – they can actually be beneficial predators on fruit trees, where they'll manage aphid populations for you.

If they're causing extensive damage to your plants, the RHS recommends setting up flowerpot traps. Fill them with straw, turn them upside down and prop them up on canes. Earwigs will filter into them at night, ready to be emptied in the morning.

8. Woolly aphids

We've covered aphids, but woolly aphids are a particular kind of garden plant pest you'll want to be on the lookout for. They attack various ornamental and edible trees, particularly apple and crab apple varieties. You'll also find them on pyracantha and cotoneaster shrubs.

Like their non-woolly counterparts, these critters are sap-suckers, and you'll know they're enjoying the woody stems when you spot a fluffy white wax covering the plants.

'Woolly aphids particularly like congregating in small cracks in trees and pruned branches where they can nestle into the nooks and crannies of the bark,' says Edris Latifi, pest expert at Eco Care. 'If you have a small tree, it is possible to manage them by using a stiff bristled brush. Tackle them in early summer before they can multiply.

'Pesticides are unlikely to be effective as you’d need to be able to tackle the full plant or, in this case, tree.'

6. Scale insects

The final sap-sucking garden plant pests on this list, scale insects are usually identified by their waxy shell. You'll be able to spot them on the undersides of leaves and along the stems of ornamental plants and fruit trees.

Similar to aphids and mealybugs, many species of scale insect leave a honeydew substance on the plant. They won't cause extensive damage in small numbers, but larger populations can be dealt with by encouraging predatory insects like parasitic wasps into your garden. Nematodes are another option for larger infestations.

9. Thrips

Due to the numerous species of thrip, you'll probably have seen this common garden plant pest on a wide range of flowering varieties.

'If your plants are being affected by thrips, their leaves will turn a dull green and can develop a silvery discolouration on their upper surface,' says Graham Smith MClhort from LBS Horticulture. 'These discoloured areas are often marked by black excrement spots.

'Developing plant tissue that has been eaten by thrips will be marked by white flecking on flower petals where the pigment is lost, and heavy feeding can prevent flower buds from opening entirely.

'Ensure that you are checking vulnerable plants often so that you can take action before damage occurs. Plants are able to tolerate some damage caused by thrips. To get rid of them naturally, you can try to encourage the natural predators of thrips to visit your garden, or hang sticky traps above or among plants in greenhouses to help reduce their numbers.'

10. Cutworms

Cutworms are actually the caterpillars of various moths, the most common being turnip moth larvae. They live in the soil for the first stage of their lives, so they're a little trickier to spot, and you often won't notice them. Though they can be seen at any time of the year, they're most active during the autumn and winter, when they pupate.

'A little damage won't spell disaster for your plants, but encouraging birds and other natural predators into the garden will help keep the numbers at bay. 'The feeding damage caused by cutworms can often go unnoticed, and they are a part of a healthy ecosystem in your garden,' says Graham from LBS Horticulture. 'Signs that they are in your garden may include girdled stems or severed roots at the ground level of plants.

'Ideally, you should tolerate some damage from cutworms, as they form the basis of many food chains and are part of the biodiversity that a healthy garden can support. You can try to encourage natural predators, such as birds, ladybirds or wasps, or use fleece and insect proof mesh to protect plants.

'When young, cutworms are vulnerable to rain and irrigation, so well watered plots are usually free from damage.'

FAQs

What is the most common garden pest?

For many gardeners in the UK, the most common garden plant pests are slugs, snails and caterpillar. They're certainly the easiest to identify from the extensive damage they can cause to garden plants.

Aphids are also very common, with numerous species affecting a wide range of plants.

What is eating my garden plants in the UK?

'Woodlice are often abundant in healthy gardens, and are largely beneficial as they cause little or no damage to healthy plants,' says Graham from LBS Horticulture. 'You may find a large number in your compost heap, where they will help to break down the material. They mainly feed on damp, decomposing plant material and help to recycle nutrients in the garden.'

Be on the lookout for these garden plant pests during your next gardening session.

As we start to spend more time outdoors in our gardens during the warmer months of the year, you may have spotted ants scurrying about, which can be a bit of a nuisance.

While there are a number of ways to get rid of ants inside your home, you might have to change tactics outdoors. And a lot of that has to do with the fact that you tend to only see the odd ant indoors, particularly if you’ve left food out or the weather has forced them inside. But outside there can be hundreds of ants swarming around.

‘Ants tend to build their nests near human habitats where food is easily accessible and typically emerge during the warmer months between May and October, with July being a peak time for their appearance,’ admits Hudson Lambert, Pest Expert at NOPE! So, it’s no surprise that you might have noticed more ants in your garden or outdoor space this month.

Plus, ‘ants are typically more active in higher temperatures and ant colonies use sunlight to navigate, so summer is their best friend,’ John Stewart, a Technical Team Member at Pelsis, clarifies.

But should you be killing ants in your garden? Or are their alternatives? Well, here’s everything you need to know about dealing with the pesky pests this summer.

Should I kill ants in my garden?

This can all depend on whether or not they’re doing any damage or causing significant issues in your garden. For example, ‘if they dig enough sand out from under your patio slabs or paved driveway, it can cause problems,’ says Steven Walley, Patio and Paving Expert from London Stone. 

‘By tunnelling through the sand under and between your paving, they can damage the integrity of the joints, causing paver sinkage. This can not only make the floor unlevelled but it can also cause bigger gaps to appear between paving slabs, leading to weeds and moss to grow.’

Another reason why you might want to kill ants in your garden is ‘if they start farming aphids (tiny sap-sucking insects) for their honeydew,’ suggests Josh Clarke, Manager at Clear It Waste. ‘Aphids can damage your plants, and having a large ant population can exacerbate this issue. But generally, the benefits they provide often outweigh the drawbacks.'

Ants play a pretty important role in the ecosystem that is your garden. ‘For starters, they're excellent at aerating the soil, which helps plant roots get oxygen and water more efficiently,’ Josh adds. ‘They also help with pest control by preying on other insects and decomposing organic matter, which enriches the soil with nutrients.’

Most of the experts agree that they don’t typically recommend killing any kind of garden wildlife, especially ones such as ants who on the whole don’t cause much trouble. So on this occasion overall we'd recommend opting for ant deterrent methods around garden seating areas and your house instead of killing them.

FAQs

What happens when you destroy an ant hill?

Even though ant hills can be easy to spot and in turn, hard to ignore once you’ve seen them, there’s a bit of a misconception that destroying an ant hill will eradicate ants from your garden, the experts say. Often all it does is remove one entrance from the ant colony that lies beneath and as a result, the ants will tend to burrow out and create a new hill somewhere else in your garden.

‘It can even lead to a temporary increase in ant activity as they scramble to rebuild,’ Josh warns.

What do ants hate the most?

‘Like many insects, ants usually hate very strong scents and will be put off if any of these are around your garden,’ suggests James Ewens, Commercial Director of Alexander Francis. ‘Think lemon juice, peppermint, tea tree and cayenne pepper. Mix the scent of your choice into a solution and spray around areas where you’ve noticed ants to try and keep them at bay.’ 

Ants also ‘really hate anything that feels gritty underfoot, including coffee beans and salt,’ Steven affirms. ‘This works to create a ‘barrier’ for the ants which they will avoid,’ with it also being a natural way of deterring them from certain areas, such as seating or dining areas in your garden. However, these won’t be permanent solutions when it comes to getting rid of ants for good.

What are the best natural ways to get rid of ants permanently?

While there are a couple of different ways to get rid of ants from your garden for good, you do need to consider how much damage the insects are actually doing to your garden first, as certain methods for removing them can cause problems in their own right.

Firstly, you can try pouring a solution of two parts water and one part vinegar into and around the ant nest. ‘The reason for this is that the strong scent of vinegar hugely disrupts how the ants operate, as they use scent to move around your garden and identify routes to food,’ James explains. ‘This disruption can prompt the ants to leave and set up shop elsewhere, though this isn’t guaranteed.’ But because vinegar can kill parts of plants that it comes into contact with, you do need to be precise when it comes to how you use it to stop it from doing any damage.

‘You can also introduce nematodes into the area that will infect the ants, pouring them into the soil where the ants usually burrow through,’ James admits.

Coming across blackfly on your plants is nothing less than a nuisance for novice and experienced gardeners alike. These sap-sucking aphids are known to cause issues for plants in your garden, including stunting plant growth and spreading disease.

Although they're not the worst pest to make their home in your garden and are often resolved in due time by natural predators, there are a few tricks you can try to get rid of blackfly on plants and discourage them from coming back.

Similar to getting rid of glasshouse whitefly, it's best to opt for methods that will allow you to naturally control the spread of blackfly on your plants in the future and protect your budding garden ideas – without resorting to pesticides.

How to get rid of blackfly on plants

'In my time gardening, I have found that the best way for controlling blackfly on plants is through natural methods,' begins Georgina O'Grady, managing director at Evergreen Direct.

Blackfly is one of many garden plant pests you shouldn't ignore. So, read on to uncover the best tips and tricks from gardening experts to successfully tackle these pests.

1. Spray with water

Starting simple, we've got water. This is probably the easiest method as it's easily accessible to everyone but does take more time to do as you've got to manually do the work.

'Simply use your hose pipe to send a strong jet of water to blast the blackflies off your plants. Be sure to spray the underside of the leaves as this is where they tend to hide,' advises James Ewens, commercial director at Green Feathers. 'Repeat this process every few days until you're confident they have all gone.'

2. Spritz with soap spray solution

A mixture of water and washing up liquid is also another way to get rid of blackfly on plants.

'Mix a tablespoon of dish soap with a litre of water in a spray bottle like this one from Lakeland. Make sure to coat the plant thoroughly, including the undersides of leaves,' says James.

3. Use natural predators

If you've previously heard about using ladybirds to get rid of aphids, best believe they're just as effective in the case of getting rid of these sap-sucking pests, too.

Attracting the likes of ladybirds and lacewings to your garden can help keep blackfly populations under control. While you're at it, it's worth making your garden wildlife-friendly by also attracting birds to tackle your blackfly infestation problem.

4. Repel by companion planting

On a similar note to introducing natural predators in your garden, you can also continue down the au natural route by companion planting. By planting certain things in your garden, you can repel blackflies from your plants. Georgina suggests planting chives or marigolds, which have also cropped up in our explainer of the best plants to deter wasps.

Not only is this method of getting rid of blackly on plants natural, but you can be sure that it's safe for the rest of your carefully curated flower beds.

5. Add essential oils

Essential oils are already a must for getting rid of midges and stopping ants on a patio, solidifying them as a reliable method for natural pest control. So, it's no surprise that the same practices can be used to get rid of blackfly.

'Oils such as rosemary, thyme, peppermint, and clove oil are a natural repellent to blackflies. Add a few drops of your chosen oil to a litre of water in a spray bottle and mist your plants. Just make sure you always cover the surrounding soil to avoid harming the plant's roots,' remarks James.

Or you could try this Plant pest spray from Amazon with 100% natural ingredients to help rid your plants of blackflies and other pests without harming the environment.

What you'll need

Top tips for preventing blackfly on plants

While the above methods are great for treating a blackfly infestation head-on, prevention is always better than cure – and the same rings true for gardening endeavours.

'To keep blackflies away from plants in the long term, I believe good garden hygiene is key. Regularly checking plants for early signs of infestation and pruning affected areas can prevent the spread of blackfly. You should also maintain overall plant health through proper watering and feeding, which I have found helps plants resist pests naturally,' advises Georgina.

FAQs

Does soapy water get rid of blackfly?

Yes, soapy water can get rid of blackfly on your plants. Mix a bit of washing-up liquid and water in a spray bottle and evenly coat the infected plant, being sure to get the solution on the undersides of the leaves, too.

Ensuring you're carrying out good gardening habits combined with the methods above of keeping a diverse garden environment, you can rest assured that you're one step closer to controlling blackfly on your plants and effectively preventing future infestations.

When you already have a house, kids, pets, and bills to think about, the last thing you need is a bunch of six-legged critters squatting in your kitchen. That's why you may ask yourself: How do you get rid of ants in a kitchen?

Yes, knowing how to get rid of ants is an essential piece of information that every homeowner or renter should have in their back pocket. And while most people want to know how to get rid of ants on the patio or how to kill ants nests in a lawn, it’s fair to say that ants can also be a real problem inside the home.

Although you might think that these scurrying little critters are harmless, leaving ants in your kitchen is a recipe for disaster. Before too long, you’ll be overrun with tiny house guests. And who wants to deal with teeny-tiny guests who aren’t paying rent?

How to get rid of ants in a kitchen

To help you reclaim control of your kitchen and protect your kitchen ideas, we’ve asked pet experts to share their top tips for getting rid of ants in a kitchen. This is what they had to say.

1. Scrub away the scent trails

Getting rid of ants in the kitchen is extremely tricky, as they leave a secret trail in their wake. As they wander around your kitchen and locate delicious food sources (without paying for them, may we add), they leave behind a scented pheromone that they then use to re-trace their steps and find even more food.

Because of this, it’s important to clean your kitchen and scrub away this scented pheromone. The easiest way to do that is to use a combination of soap and water. You can either use hand soap or washing-up liquid for this job.

Daniel Steward, Managing Director at Shield Pest Control, explains, ‘Dish soap is a convenient way to eliminate ants. Put your liquid detergent into a spray bottle with water and spray this anywhere you have seen ants. By doing this, the liquid will leave a residue that ants will be unable to walk across.’

This residue of soap and water, as well as the leftover scent, will also remove all traces of the pheromones. Then, the ants shouldn’t return.

2. Use natural repellents

When you have ants in your kitchen, it can be easy to make your own ant trap or buy chemical ant killers. But if you’re looking for natural alternatives that will get rid of ants in a kitchen without killing them in the process, it’s best to focus on repelling them instead. Thankfully, there are many cupboard essentials you can use to do this:

Coffee grounds: There are so many things you can do with leftover coffee grounds, one of which is keeping ants out of your kitchen. All you need to do is sprinkle the coffee grounds around your kitchen floor and on windowsills (ideally on a piece of paper) and wait for the ants to leave.

Black pepper: If you’ve spotted ants scurrying underneath your oven or around your kitchen door, sprinkling black pepper should do the trick. Ants hate the smell of black pepper as it irritates their little antennae, so they’ll steer clear of it.

Essential oils: Peppermint oil, tea tree oil, lemon eucalyptus oil, and neem oil are all known to repel ants and are the perfect way to get rid of ants in a kitchen. Simply add 5-10 drops of your essential oil of choice onto cotton balls and place them around your kitchen.

White vinegar: Cleaning with white vinegar is always a good idea, especially as ants hate the smell. By making a solution of 1:1 water and vinegar and cleaning your whole kitchen, you should be able to get rid of ants in the kitchen and keep them at bay if used regularly. But if you've just used your last drops of white vinegar, you can pick up this Miniml White Vinegar from Lakeland for under £2.50.

3. Remove any food sources

Why would an ant leave your kitchen when you’re offering them an all-you-can-eat buffet of crumbs, rubbish bin juices (yuck), and food and drink spills? One of the main reasons why ants come into your kitchen in the first place is because you’re offering them an abundance of food sources. So, you need to remove these opportunities.

Adam Juson, Co-Founder of pest control company Merlin Environmental, explains, ‘Ants are attracted to food and water, so by eliminating these sources, you’ll be one step closer to controlling them. Make sure your kitchen is as clean as possible, wipe down surfaces, remove crumbs and spills immediately and sweep and vacuum floors.’

‘Bins should also be taken out regularly and fitted with tight lids to prevent pesky creatures from getting inside. Any food leftover should be in sealed containers or in cabinets. Ants can get into loosely closed packages, so use Tupperware, foil and bag ties to keep your food fresh and safe.’

In fact, our advice is to stock up on this 38 Pcs Large Food Storage Containers from Amazon and invest in this Tower 50L Rectangular Sensor Bin from Dunelm to keep the critters at bay.

While you’re at it, it’s also a good idea to wash your dirty bowls and plates as soon as possible.

4. Clean the sink and fix leaks

During the summer months, you may find more ants in your kitchen than usual. That’s because ants will enter your home for the three essentials: food, shelter, and water. And if there’s no water outside in the hot temperatures, they’ll make their way into your house for some fresh H20 instead.

Because of this, it’s always a good idea to check your kitchen for signs of a leak. Adam says, ‘Ants are also attracted to standing water, so be sure to fix any leaky taps and remove standing water from the bottom of plant pots.’

You should also try to keep your kitchen sink as dry as possible. This can be difficult when you’re doing the washing up regularly, but taking just a few seconds to wipe the inside of your sink with a microfibre cloth (like this Sorbo Pack of 4 Microfibre Cloths from Dunelm) when you’re done can be the difference between a kitchen with ants and a kitchen without ants.

5. Secure the area

If you want a quick fix to get rid of ants in the kitchen, one of the best vacuum cleaners will become your best friend.

Daniel explains, ‘If ants are already present in your kitchen, you can use a vacuum cleaner to eliminate visible ants. However, it is crucial to ensure that the vacuum is emptied immediately afterwards and the bag is taken outside of the house to avoid ants finding their way back into your home.’

But this will only solve half of the problem, and it’s highly likely that the ants will come back with a vengeance if you don’t follow the steps above. For peace of mind, you could also secure the area and block off all entry points.

‘Look for entry points where ants are coming in - this includes cracks and crevices,’ explains Adam. ‘Secure these areas with silicone or weather stripping.’

Thankfully, silicone isn't hard to find. For under £ 10, you can grab this UniBond Anti Mould Kitchen and Bathroom Silicone Sealant from Dunelm.

FAQs

How do I permanently get rid of ants in my kitchen?

The best way to permanently get rid of ants in your kitchen is to make your kitchen as undesirable as possible. Ants will enter your kitchen to seek shelter, food, and water, so you need to take away these things.

By keeping your kitchen clean and free from food scraps and leaks, you should be able to deter these critters. For extra protection, you could also use natural ant repellents to keep them at bay, such as white vinegar, essential oils, or coffee grounds.

What causes kitchen ants?

Just as you go to your kitchen for a snack, ants do the same thing. They are largely attracted to the kitchen because they can sense and smell food sources. This could be leftover food sitting on the worktop, crumbs falling on the floor, or sauces and scraps on unwashed plates.

But that’s not all. Ants may also enter your kitchen during the summer months to seek water. They will typically congregate around your kitchen sink or on wet worktops, which is why it’s so important to keep your kitchen as dry as possible.

Well, there you have it. That’s how you get rid of ants in a kitchen.

Ah, glasshouse whitefly. They might be active throughout the year, but these notorious garden pests are the ones to watch out for whenever spring rolls around – largely because they have a serious hankering for all your greenhouse-grown goodies.

So, how to get rid of glasshouse whitefly? Ideally before your greenhouse ideas are filled to the brim with a cloud of small white-winged insects desperate to sink their teeth into   your cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, pelargoniums, and more.

'These tiny pests feed on the sap of plants, causing damage to leaves and spreading disease,' explain heirloom veg growing experts Lucy Hutchings and Kate Cotterill of SheGrowsVeg.

'They are not always immediately visible, as they tend to lurk on the underside of foliage – but an afflicted plant will erupt in a cloud of tiny flies when brushed past,' the duo continue.

Anyone else suddenly feeling itchy? Got a sudden urge to clean your greenhouse from top to bottom? Us too. 

Here, then, is everything you need to know about getting rid of glasshouse whitefly...

How to get rid of glasshouse whitefly

Whether it's flies or slugs, no gardener likes to think about a garden pest going to town on their precious plants. It's little wonder, then, that so many of us are keen to learn how to get rid of glasshouse whitefly before they wreak havoc this spring.

'Glasshouse whiteflies are small, moth-like insects measuring around 1.5mm in length,' explain Lucy and Kate. 

'They have powdery white wings and are commonly found on the undersides of leaves, where they lay their eggs. Both the nymphs and adults feed on plant sap, causing stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract ants and promote the growth of sooty mould.'

According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), these destructive pests are known to target:

• Cucumber
• Melon
• Tomato
• Peppers
• Chrysanthum
• Gerbera
• Pelargonium
• Fuchsia
• Lantana
• Poinsettia
• Verbena

Signs and symptoms of glasshouse whitefly

As well as the aforementioned cloud of flying white insects, you'll know you need to learn how to get rid of glasshouse whitefly when you start spotting flat, oval, creamy white scale-like nymphs attached to the leaves of your plants.

You may also spot black sooty moulds, which is the result of sticky honeydew falling from the insects and onto your plants.

Natural ways to combat glasshouse whitefly

The RHS recommends that you don't use pesticides, which is why many gardening experts – Lucy and Kate included – will urge you to use one of the following methods to get rid of your glasshouse whitefly instead.

1. Biological controls

'The best way to combat glasshouse whitefly is to use biological controls – essentially another animal that eats the pest you want to be rid of,' say Lucy and Kate.

With this thought in mind, then, they recommend using either Biological Encasia from Amazon or Eretmocerus Parasitoids.

'These are the tiny parasitic wasps that predate upon the white fly, very effectively controlling their numbers, and can be easily bought online,' they explain.

2. Encourage beneficial insects

If you want to learn how to get rid of glasshouse whitefly, Lucy and Kate advise that you encourage their natural predators, such as ladybirds and lacewings, and help them establish themselves in your wildlife-friendly garden. 

'These insects feed on whitefly eggs and larvae, helping to keep their populations in check,' the duo explain. 

'You can attract these beneficial insects by planting a diverse range of flowering plants and avoiding the use of broad-spectrum pesticides.'

3. Sticky traps

If you'd like to get rid of glasshouse whitefly without welcoming further insects into your garden, Lucy and Kate suggest you 'hang yellow sticky traps near infested plants to capture adult whiteflies'. 

'The bright yellow colour attracts the insects, and once they land on the sticky surface, they become trapped and unable to reproduce,' they continue. 

'Regularly replace the sticky traps as they become covered with whiteflies or dust.

4 Pruning and cleaning

Finally, but by no means least, Lucy and Kate advise that you 'regularly inspect your plants for signs of whitefly infestation and remove heavily infested leaves to reduce their numbers'. 

'Additionally, practise good garden hygiene by cleaning up fallen leaves and debris, as whiteflies can hide and lay eggs in decaying plant matter,' they add.

FAQs

What is the easiest way to get rid of glasshouse whitefly?

If you're still looking to banish glasshouse whitefly from your greenhouse, you can try any of the natural methods listed above – or do as the RHS suggests and try 'removing unwanted plants', as this 'can reduce the number of host plants for glasshouse whitefly'.

It's also a good idea to boost ventilation and keep your greenhouse as clean as you can, too.

Does washing up liquid get rid of whitefly?

Some people swear by adding a few drops of washing up liquid (and a squeeze of lemon juice) to a spray bottle filled with water, before giving it a good shake and a spray to deter glasshouse whitefly.

However, the RHS cautions that 'homemade products are not recommended as they are unregulated and usually untested'.

And just like that, you know exactly how to get rid of glasshouse whitefly and protect your precious plant babies from their devouring ways.

Anyone else suddenly feeling an urge to arm themselves with yellow sticky traps galore?

It seems that TikTok has a hack for everything. Cleaning TikTok hacks have even been rebranded into a whole new category named Cleantok. But the social media platform is just as active when it comes to gardening advice – and we just came across a clever TikTok gardening hack utilising a mesh bag.

You know those little drawstring sheer bags often used for wedding or party favours? You might have some lying around the house. Well the clever gardeners on TikTok have discovered that they are perfect for protecting homegrown vegetables from pests. So if you are learning how to grow fruit and vegetables at home this is the hack to know.

But what does it actually do? Gardening TikTokers use the bags to protect their growing produce - anything from strawberries to peppers - from pests by simply tying the bag around the fruit and veg so that nothing can get to them. And it doesn’t stop there.

Another handy use for these petite sachets you can buy 50 of for £3.99 from Amazon is collecting seeds from spent flowers by enclosing the dying flower in the bag. And that way you won’t waste any precious seeds by letting them drop to the ground. But what do our gardening experts think of this hack? Is it just a fad to them or an approved useful method? 

Mesh bag gardening TikTok hack

As we find ourselves in the midst of springtime, garden pests start to make themselves known more and more. And we’ll do anything to protect our plants and produce from them. Whether it’s putting pot feet on planters to deter slugs or stopping squirrels digging up bulbs by feeding them. Whatever works.

And TikTok content creators like Kia Jade of @kia_urbangardener have come up with a resourceful idea to protect growing fruit and veg by covering them with a mesh bag used for wedding favours. And Kia’s video has been met with a lot of praise and views - over 450,000 of them.

And our garden pros approve too as this method is not all that different from using plant netting which usually covers the whole plant unlike this hack and is one of the best plant covers to protect them against pests.

‘Plant protection netting is usually used to protect crops like fruits and plants from pests, which include birds, insects, mice, squirrels, rabbits and domestic pets,’ says Petar Ivanov, gardening and plant expert at Fantastic Gardeners. ‘I'd recommend looking for soft netting for the sides of fruit cages, fencing, or to support climbing plants but generally, mesh bags can serve the same purpose more or less.’

Steve Chilton, garden expert at LeisureBench, is a fan too, ‘This is effective for bug protection of the actual veg, and this is often the part of the plant that bugs love the most anyway. I also think it's effective for collecting seeds from flowers, rather than just letting them drop to the floor.’

Potential downsides of the hack

In regards to collecting seeds from spent flowers, Steve warns against covering the flowers too early. ‘I think you really should be careful not to intrude pollinators from getting to the flowers. I wouldn't wrap the flower in the mesh until the flower has finished blooming and has drooped. If you wrap the flower up too early then you stop the pollinators from getting to the flower which will then prevent the flower from actually growing any seeds in the first place.’

Another thing to be aware of is that this material is not specifically made for this purpose so it might not be strong enough to protect your produce from every pest that might come your way.

And, of course, the mesh bags won’t protect the rest of the plant from any attacks. ‘I'd also be wary that using mesh on the flowers isn't preventing the bugs from getting at the flowers' stems. If the flower stems are destroyed then the flowers won't grow, so it's important to cover all bases,’ Steve points out.

So while we’re all for this hack, it’s important to be aware of some of the potential challenges you might encounter. But hopefully it will keep the pests at bay.

EDITOR’S NOTE: We are aware that this article includes a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote is in a queue to be removed as soon as possible. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Once the weather warms up and spending time out on the patio becomes a possibility again, we are often faced with the challenge of having to share the space with unwanted guests. The garden and patio make for the perfect environment for ants among other pests and insects, so searching for ways to get rid of ants on the patio during this time of year all the way through the summer is commonplace.

So much so that Google Trends has already reported a +1300% increase in searches for ‘how to get rid of ants in the garden’ this year. And we’re only just in March. So if you too are looking for ways how to get rid of ants from your outdoor spaces, then you’ve come to the right place.

It turns out that there are a few ways in which you can tackle an ant invasion – some more natural, some more peaceful and less fatal than others. But all come expert-approved.

4 ways to get rid of ants on the patio

Similarly to getting rid of flying ants, when ants invade your patio you should firstly find out what’s attracting them there and eliminate this attractive source.

‘The first step in getting rid of ants is to find out what is attracting them into your garden in the first place. There is always a source. Begin by cleaning up whatever is attracting the ants and, if you’re lucky, they may just move out on their own,’ says Robert Collins, pest control expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk.

But if this doesn’t work, then you can move onto one (or all) of these other and-deterring methods.

What you’ll need

• Boiling water
• Washing-up liquid like this one at Amazon
• Borax like this one at Amazon
• Corn syrup like this one at Amazon
• Vinegar like this one at Amazon
• Lavender essential oil like this one at Amazon or peppermint essential oil like this one at Amazon
• Chemical ant repellent like this one at Amazon

1. Stop the trail

‘Scout ants work in teams and search for food sources using pheromones. These pheromones then leave a trail for the other ants to follow,’ Robert explains. ‘This means that simply sweeping the ants away won’t be effective as the pheromone trail will still be present.’

What will work is destroying the pheromone trail they’ve left behind so that they can’t find their way back.

‘You can do this by mixing one part vinegar with three parts water and simply spray this mixture in any space where you’ve seen the ants,’ Robert advises.

2. Use natural repellents

Just like when getting rid of moths, utilising the natural power of lavender and peppermint oil is often greater than chemical repellents as both ants and moths can’t stand their scent.

‘It is quite easy to naturally repel ants. Ants hate the scent of lavender and peppermint. Mix together a solution of either lavender oil or peppermint oil with water and spray this mixture close to the areas where the ants seem most prominent,’ Robert recommends. 

3. Use ant repellent sprays

If you’re not up for mixing up your own concoction of essential oils to create a natural ant deterrent, then you can simply purchase a chemical spray like this one at Amazon. But do be careful with them.

‘You can use a chemical solution for deterring ants, but these can be harmful to plants, pets and children, so it’s important to be careful when using these products. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using chemical deterrents,’ Robert warns.

4. Destroy the nest with boiling water

In order to permanently and fully get rid of ants, you need to find the nest and kill the colony – which is also how you kill an ants nest on a lawn. This is also the fastest way of stopping them from coming back to your patio.

‘To kill the colony, pour boiling water directly into it,’ says Petar Ivanov, Fantastic Gardeners' gardening expert.

But try to avoid any nearby plants or grass as the boiling water will scorch and kill them.

However, this method might not get rid of 100% of the ants so if you want to go even further you ‘can also mix 4 parts water with 1 part dish soap and pour the mixture around the nest,’ Petar suggests.

He continues, ‘Alternatively, combine equal parts of Borax and corn syrup to make a bait and use either an index card or a piece of cardboard to apply it. Borax will kill the ants when they eat the corn syrup.’

FAQs

Should you get rid of ants on the patio?

Although ants can be a nuisance, they are also actually quite beneficial. They prey on certain other insects, which can be helpful. Their presence can keep these populations in check and be helpful for your garden. Ant tunnels can help to improve drainage and air circulation in your soil. This is beneficial for plant growth. Ants can spread beneficial spores which can help plants’ roots to absorb nutrients more effectively. Ants are also a food source for birds, frogs, and other beneficial wildlife creatures in the garden. They can help to attract more wildlife to the garden,’ Robert explains.

So consider that before you get rid of the ants in your garden.

Why do I have ants in my garden?

Gardens and patios are very attractive for ants for several reasons, most of which go back to abundant sources of food.

‘Gardens are full of food sources for ants. This is usually the primary reason why they show up. Sweet substances are particularly attractive to ants – things such as spilled drinks and fallen fruit are particularly attractive. Compost piles, spilled pet food, and decaying leaves are all attractive to ants. Also, rubbish is attractive to ants, so you must make sure your rubbish bins are sealed properly,’ Robert says.

And just like that, your patio is all set to be ant-free in no time.

If you’ve spent your morning desperately Googling 'How to get rid of flying ants,' you’re not alone. Why the tales of flying ant day aren't exactly true, it is a fact that we're now in the thick of flying ant season. Oh, the joy!

There's an old rumour that there's a specific 'flying ant day' each year, usually in July. It's said that on this day, all of the flying ants in the UK come out of their hidey holes in their droves. As for the truth? There's both good and bad news, as while there isn't a single day, there is a whole season.

'Flying ant season usually spans from mid-June to August, with a sharp peak during July,' says Daniel Steward, Managing Director of Shield Pest Control.

'The actual swarm events are short-lived, often just a few hours, but colonies may continue releasing ants over several days or weeks, especially if the weather fluctuates. While the visible swarms are temporary, they can signal long-term infestations that persist if left unaddressed.'

This year, you're more than likely to be having to deal with these pesky critters all summer as they swarm gardens and invade houses, so just like we explained how you get rid of ants, we went to the experts to help us find the best way to get rid of the flying variety.

What causes flying ants around your house?

'Flying ants are the reproductive members of the colony (males and future queens) that emerge during warmer months to mate and eventually establish new nests. Their appearance is triggered by warm temperatures and high humidity, often after rain,' says Daniel.

And this summer, they're not holding back, with the recent heatwaves.

'Environmental conditions, food availability and earlier reproduction cycles have led to a spike in demand for ant pest control in recent years. As a result, homes across the UK are now acting more quickly to tackle infestations,' adds Dr Jonathan Kirby, Pest Expert at NOPE!.

How to get rid of flying ants in your house

1. Turn on your diffuser

There’s a high chance you already have a diffuser in your house. If so, you’re already one step closer to getting rid of flying ants in your house.

By filling up your diffuser with a citrus or peppermint scent (top tip: peppermint oil also helps you get rid of spiders), you should stop flying ants in their tracks and force them out of the house. Plus, you could even make a concoction to use around the house yourself.

‘Flying ants despise scents of citrus fruits, so mixing your leftover lemon, lime or orange peel with water can create an excellent rub to spread over your windowsill,’ suggests Adam Pawson, marketing director at Safestyle.

2. Bin any leftovers

Like all pesky critters, flying ants are attracted to anything food-related. In their eyes, the sweeter, the better, which is why you should always bin any leftovers and properly clean your kitchen as often as you can to stop the ants from entering your house.

'Ants love sugary foods, grains and vegetables. Keep floors clean and loose food packages tightly sealed to prevent attracting ants,' adds Dr Jonathan Kirby, pest control expert at NOPE!. 'If you have pets, always clean away uneaten food and never leave water bowls unattended for extended periods.'

And if they’re already in the house, they’ll most likely leave when they no longer have anything delicious to munch on.

3. Use a fly screen

The trouble with flying ants loving warm weather means that they appear when they find it is easiest to get in through windows left open due to the heat (although you should, in fact, close windows in a heatwave).

Unlike what is common in much of the States, our homes don't tend to come with fly screens, but they may be onto something for flying ant season. You can install a proper fly screen to doors or windows, or simply add a temporary screen that you can remove at the end of the season. This way, you can keep the windows open as much as you please without letting unwelcome visitors in.

4. Close your windows

Flying ants normally come out of their hidey holes during the summer months, which is normally when you fling open your windows and let the cool breeze in. But this could actually be doing more harm than good.

'Homes with easy access points (cracks in masonry, vents, loose window seals) or attractants like food spills and standing water can quickly become hotspots. Once inside, they may swarm in large numbers, typically near windows, light sources or doors,' explains Daniel.

So, it may sound obvious, but closing your windows is one of the best ways to get rid of flying ants. Of course, you’ll want to deter them from the house initially by removing food scraps and utilising citrus scents, and then you can focus on blocking their points of entry.

‘Windows provide easy access for pesky flying ants to enter our properties, so it’s important to make sure any entry points are sealed shut,' advises Adam. 'If any flying ants or insects have entered your home, make sure to frequently dust and clean any particularly light and airy spaces to ensure no insects or bugs get a chance to set up camp.'

However, we know that's easier said than done, especially during a heatwave, so using a fly screen like this Tesa insect stop hook and loop adhesive fly screen, £10 at Amazon, is a great solution. This fly screen is easily cut to size to fit any window.

5. Use fly traps as a last resort

If you’re really suffering from flying ants in your home and the above methods haven’t worked, you might want to consider fly traps or other pest control methods as a last resort.

Of course, fly traps work wonders when you want to know how to get rid of flies, and they work in the same way for flying ants. And while you could opt to buy poisonous fly traps or an effective fly zapper like this rotating head fly zapper, £24.99 from Amazon, we’d encourage you to try and make your own natural alternatives instead. For example, you could make a trap using apple cider vinegar or hand soap.

However, if this still doesn’t work and you’re at a loose end, Daniel Steward, managing director at Shield Pest Control, has some tips. ‘If you notice a swarm of flying ants in your home, spraying pesticides can help get rid of visible ants that are flying around or resting on surfaces,’ he says.

‘You can also use a vacuum to eliminate visible ants, but it is crucial to ensure that the vacuum cleaner is emptied immediately and the bag is taken outside of the house to avoid the ants finding a way back into the home.’

FAQs

Do flying ants nest in walls?

'Yes, walls can provide a safe, undisturbed space for ant colonies, especially if there's moisture present,' explains Daniel Steward, Managing Director of Shield Pest Control.

'Flying ants are often the first sign of a mature nest hidden in structural voids like cavity walls, lofts or under floorboards. Colonies in walls can be difficult to detect without professional help, but indicators include faint rustling sounds and repeated sightings in the same area.'

What is the fastest way to get rid of flying ants?

The fastest way to get rid of flying ants is to vacuum them up or use a pesticide. However, both of these methods will cause harm to the flying ants - something that isn’t necessary when there are so many other natural alternatives.

In most cases, prevention is better than the cure, and you can stop flying ants from entering your house by removing food traces, closing your windows, and even using citrus scents as a natural flying ant repellent.

Why do flying ants suddenly appear?

Although they’re a nuisance, it’s important to understand that flying ants are a vital part of our ecosystem - and that they suddenly appear for a very important reason.

‘While it might seem like the UK is being invaded by a black, winged armada every summer, these flying ants are just looking for love,’ explains Dr Cheri Honnas of Bone Voyage Dog Rescue. ‘Around July or August – thanks to the warm temperature – young queen ants leave their nests aiming to start new colonies, and male ants join them in this nuptial flight. Their large numbers? It's all about protection. They gather in swarms so predators can't pick them off easily.’

So, while it may seem like they appear out of nowhere, that’s not the case at all. They’re always around, but they’re especially active (and in noticeably large numbers) during this mating season.

Throwing open all of our doors and windows when the warmer weather arrives is one of life's biggest joys – there’s nothing quite like a warm breeze on a summer's day.

But the one downside of open doors and windows is the fact that it often means a whole host of bugs, flies and other such creatures soon join us inside our homes. And while there’s nothing necessarily wrong with insects venturing inside for a moment (so long as they leave eventually), it's not ideal, especially if there's food and drink around.

While there are plenty of ways to get rid of flies in the house, it feels like there are fewer tactics for how to get rid of ants. Though they are pretty harmless, their attraction to leftover food can be irritating, and sometimes, downright disgusting. Luckily, a recent TikTok video has shared a clever hack for steering them clear of your windows and doors.

The TikTok trick for getting ants out of your home

A TikTok video shared by cleaning brand Purdy & Figg – which has since amassed over 1.3 million views, and almost 9,000 likes – revealed a super easy trick for guiding ants out of your home.

In the short clip, the expert reveals that in order to stop ants from coming in, you first need to figure out where they are coming from. Once you do, the video advises pouring down a line of baking powder to block their route into the property.

The video says 'This should make them turn around without harming them.' Genius - and so simple! 

This method should take just seconds to complete, but of course, you’ll need to uncover where the ants are coming from first. Charlotte Figg, cleaning expert and founder of Purdy & Figg, explained, 'Sadly there's no quick trick to find out where ants are coming in from - the best thing to do is to watch them and trace the line back to the original entry point.'

This should be easy enough though, as she explains that ants will usually always ‘follow the leader’, and track the same route as the guy in front of them.

So why does this trick work for detracting ants from your home? What is it about the baking powder that causes them to turn around?

'Ants always follow the same route,' Charlotte told Ideal Home. 'They do this by following the pheromone scent excreted by the ants ahead of them in the line - if they lose this trail of scent and deviate from the route, they end up going back on themselves and back where they came from. 

'This is where the bicarbonate of soda/baking powder comes in - by sprinkling a non-food related powder, you can mask the scent of the pheromones and quite literally put the ants off the scent. We'd recommend replacing the powder every week or so!'

And if you want to do more to discourage all sorts of insects from coming into your home this summer, Charlotte also advised using naturally strong-smelling cleaning products around entry points in your home, which should help to put them off.

'Ants and other insects dislike strong scents, so it's always worth cleaning entry points to the house with strong, naturally scented products (perhaps our insect-repelling Citronella & Niaouli Counter Clean).'

This TikTok clip also reminds us of the very wise piece of advice that is not to leave food out in your home – as plenty of creepy-crawlies may be attracted to this scent.

EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this article included a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote has been removed. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.

The pesky thing about ants is that they come in the thousands, so the last place we want them to nest is in our garden. Fortunately, you can learn how to kill ants nest in lawn and get back to enjoying your garden pest-free. 

Even if you know all the best lawn care tips and you take good care of your grass, an ant colony can still settle in your garden and build a nest. Anthills are a sure way to ruin the look of any garden landscaping ideas, so learning how to kill ants nest in lawn is pretty essential.

'Ants and their effect on a lawn can be a real nuisance, with their nesting and hills smothering grass plants and contributing to an uneven surface, at worst causing some yellowing from root damage,' says Jonathan Hill, Director and Lawn Expert, Rolawn. 'However, there’s nothing here that can’t be rectified.'

So you can get back to enjoying your garden ant-free, we've asked the experts how to kill ants nest in lawn, without causing any damage to your grass. 

How to kill ants nest in lawn

Whether an ants nest is ruining the look of your front garden ideas, or it's made an inconvenient home next to your back garden flowerpots, you need to know how to get rid of it. Here's how to kill ants nest in lawn, without hurting your well-kept grass.

What you'll need

• Biological nemotade - these nematodes from Amazon are formulated with ants in mind
• Shovel - there's plenty of garden shovels available at Amazon if you're looking for an upgrade
• Gardening gloves - stock up on gardening gloves at Amazon to stop your hands getting mucky

1. Locate the nest

The first step to learning how to kill ants nest in lawn is fairly obvious, but not always easy. You need to locate the nest to be able to get rid of  it. 

Even if there's a swarm of ants in one place, this isn't necessarily the location of the nest, so observe the ants for a while and see where they head back to.

2. Apply a biological nematode

Unlike learning how to remove weeds from patio, killing an ants nest in a lawn requires biological methods only, otherwise you risk damaging your grass beyond repair.

The experts recommend you use a biological, rather than chemical, pesticide, as strong chemicals like bleach can cause damage to other wildlife and plants. Biological nematodes are microscopic creatures that act as parasites on other insects, like ants.

'Nematodes act as an irritant and the ants are displaced from their colonies,' explains Jonathan from Rolawn. 'Lawns can be treated from April to October when the soil temperatures are warm enough for the nematodes to be effective.'

Look for the pathogenic nematode Steinernema feltiae, which is usually recommended for treating ant nests, though most ones that are suitable for killing ants will be advertised as such, like this Achat Nature Nematode, £11.75 at Amazon. Read the instructions that come with your nematode before applying. 

3. Dig up the nest

After you've applied a biological nematode, grab your shovel and dig up the remains of the ant nest.

It's probably best to throw the nest away so a new colony can't remigrate to the nest in a different location in your garden. Alternatively, you can bury the remains of the nest in a patch of public land. 

4. Prevent ants from returning

You've learnt how to kill ants nest in lawn, but it's helpful to know how to stop them from coming back so your efforts aren't wasted. Here are some expert recommended tips that will prevent ants from becoming a recurring problem in your garden:

• Remove any food sources that might be attracting the ants
• Use repellent sprays regularly to keep the ants away, like this Smart Spray Ants Away, £16.90 at Amazon
• Brush or rake away disturbed soil after mowing the lawn, to prevent ant colonies settling

How to make DIY ant traps

If you've been looking into DIY ant traps recently, they can be a really effective method when learning how to kill ants nest in lawn. It's a fairly easy DIY project that doesn't require many supplies or much of your time. Try the method below as an alternative to a biological nemotade. 

What you'll need

• Powdered sugar - there's plenty of icing sugar available at Amazon
• Baking soda - stock up on this store cupboard essential at Amazon
• Jar lids (or a similar small container for holding the bait) - if you don't have any lying around the house, you can buy jar lids in bulk at Amazon

1. Create your solution

To make your DIY ant trap, combine two teaspoons of baking soda with two teaspoons of powdered sugar – they can't tell the difference, but the sugar will lure them in and the baking soda will kill them.

2. Add your bait to the jar lids and place them in the garden

Place the solution in the jar lids and leave these around the nest, or in strategic locations where you see the ants frequently. If you don’t have jar lids, you can place the mixture directly on the surface where you see the ants. However, be aware that it’s a very light powder so it could blow away before it has chance to work. 

3. And wait

Leave the bait traps in place for a few days and you should notice the number of ants reduce significantly. If the bait traps become quite full, you can empty them out and replace them with a new baking soda and powdered sugar mixture. 

Repeat the process until you stop seeing the ants, then dig out the nest and dispose of it.

FAQs

EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this article included a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote has been removed. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.

We wait for the warmer weather all year, dreaming of days spent with the windows wide open and evenings al fresco, but with this comes the arrival of flies. Between fruit flies and other flying insects, having our windows open to deal with the heat offers the perfect portal for these pesky bugs to venture indoors. Similarly to getting rid of ants and waving goodbye to mosquitoes, figuring out how to get rid of flies can be a challenging task. 

We're not taking no for an answer this summer though, so whether it's trialling at-home remedies to deter flies or investing in a home appliance to banish them, these tricks should be effective at keeping your house pest-free. 

How to get rid of flies in the house 

If you’ve found yourself searching for ‘how to get rid of fruit flies’ during the warmer weather, you’re not alone. Each month an average of 30,000 Brits take to Google to look for some expert advice, with them being most prevalent in our homes from around May to September.

‘Thankfully, there are a number of preventative measures you can take to reduce the chance of infestation,’ in the first place, says Rachael Kiss from Alliance Online.

How to get rid of flies in a kitchen

You may have noticed that your kitchen can often become an epicentre for flies in the warmer months but there are some precautions that you can take to stop this.

Keep surfaces and dirty dishes clean

If you’ve left your windows or back door open to let in the fresh air in, it’s no surprise that flies naturally gravitate towards where food is being prepared.

Making sure to keep surfaces clean and tidy and taking the rubbish bin out more frequently than you usually would, especially when you’re binning food that will go off, is key. Rotten food is, ‘the perfect attraction and breeding ground for fruit flies,’ suggests Rachael.

This means you’ll also want to clean up your pots, pans and plates as soon as you’ve eaten during the summer. The same can be said for the remnants of your favourite cocktail, fizzy drink or glass of wine that may be lingering at the bottom of a glass or two.

Store fruit and vegetables away

If you normally leave your fruit out in a fruit bowl or on your kitchen counter, you may want to reconsider this in the warmer months. Fruit flies, in particular, ‘are attracted to the ripeness of fruit and vegetables and the smell of fermentation, so seal and refrigerate food and keep it in an airtight container,’ if you can, says Rachael.

Ensure your drains are clean

You may or may not be aware that flies can breed and lay eggs in damp areas like drains, so it is important to keep your kitchen sink drain as clean as possible.

Rachael recommends, ‘a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to eliminate any buildup and deter fruit flies from breeding there. If you don’t have baking soda or vinegar, boiling water could work just as well.’

Use a fan

Using a fan to keep flies at bay is one of our favourite hacks because it also works to keep you cool. When the weather is muggy, a fan is the most convenient way to ventilate a room, and that airflow presents a difficult environment for fruit flies to thrive in. 

‘Fruit flies are weak fliers and dislike strong air currents. By placing a fan near where fruit flies congregate, you can create an environment with increased air circulation which makes it more difficult for the fruit flies to fly and land on surfaces,’ suggests Rachael.

It's also important to be strategic about where you position a fan, to ensure you're optimising the spots where flies will enter the room. 

Alvin Pullins, Home Maintenance Expert at Nerd in the House, also suggests to 'set up multiple fans strategically throughout your home, aiming them towards areas where fruit flies tend to gather'. This will maximise the airflow and result in an airy room that is free from flies.

How to keep flies out of other rooms

One area that's often neglected is under the bed, so make sure this is included in your cleaning routine.

'Whilst many find cleaning under the bed to be a chore, it’s still an important one especially if you eat in bed,' says Martin Seeley, CEO, MattressNextDay. 'To prevent flies from appearing, use your hairdryer to blow dust out from under the bed, so you can then hoover it up. Do this at least, twice a month to ensure those mites don’t have time to gather and cause health issues.'

Close your curtains to stop flies from getting any further

It’s pretty unbelievable how quickly flies can slip through open windows before being unable to find their way back outside. However, there are a few blockades that you can put in place to stop them from getting in through the windows, even when you still have them open for fresh air and ventilation in the summer.

‘Simply keeping your curtains closed can make a big difference in preventing flies from accessing the whole of your house,’ reveals Sean Mac Anbhaird, Managing Director, Core Sash Windows.

‘Closed curtains work well to contain flies in one area which, when combined with other fly traps, can make getting rid of flies much quicker and more effective.’

Now, if you don’t want to be sitting in complete darkness, because the curtains are shut all day, a mesh curtain is a great alternative, while still allowing light to filter through. It is also worth noting that this hack does work best with floor-length curtains.

Install fly screening

If you still want to let a cool breeze in, without inviting flies inside too, opting for fly screening works remarkably well. These inexpensive mesh screens, available on Amazon, can be added to doors and windows and are easy to install and remove, if you only plan on having them up over the warmer weather.

They allow you to keep a door completely open all day or evening long on a sunny day, with a magnetic snap closure allowing easy access inside and out, while keeping flies, bees and even wasps from getting in. 

Opt for sticky fly traps

We admit sticky fly traps aren't the most stylish of options for keeping out in your house, but they are effective. They come in a few different forms, including tape that you can hang from a ceiling as well as tabs that you can place in houseplants, to keep them safe from any infesting bugs. 

By positioning the sticky tape on the ceiling, it forms a barrier in the space where flies frequent the most - the top of the room. This catches them quickly before they can make themselves at home in your living spaces, plus it's easy to replace the tape after use. 

How to get rid of flies using plants

'The herb basil is known to repel flies and mosquitoes, making it a great kitchen plant option,' says TapWarehouse's Polly. 'Not only will it stop flies, it's also great to use in plenty of recipes!'

If you're happy for the circle of life to take over there are more, ahem, carnivorous options, too.

'If your kitchen often suffers from flies and pests then a venus fly trap would be perfect for you,' says Keira Kay, Plant Expert, Bloom and Wild. 'As the name suggests, this plant lures in flies and other bugs, traps them in their spiny mouths and eats. While it won’t completely rid your kitchen of flies, it’ll definitely help and look impressive at the same time!'

How to get rid of flies using fruit

'If you have overripe fruit that is beginning to go bad, place it in the bottom of a glass jar,' explains Scott from SkipsAndBins. 'You can also add a little bit of vinegar to the fruit in order to make it more effective.'

T'hen, make a cone out of some paper, and place it into the top of the jar. This means that the fruit will attract the pests, and the cone will trap them so that they can't get out, creating an ideal zero waste trap.'

'Afterwards, you can add the fruit to your compost heap, recycle the paper, and then wash and reuse the jar.'

How to get rid of flies using water and coins

There's been a lot of talk buzzing around the internet about this one – all you need is a clear sealable bag, such as a sandwich bag, water and a few shiny coins. The idea is not a new one, but it seems most of us are unaware of its potential power.

A selection of YouTube tutorials show how to make your own harmless fly deterrent with a bag of water – put those swats aside people.

It really couldn't be any simpler. Take your clear bags and fill them roughly half way with water. As the video explains flies have what is known as compound vision, meaning they see things very differently to us.

As a result the small bag of water will appear in multiples to a fly's eye and given how much they dislike water it's an instant deterrent. This simple trick works a treat.

Drop in five or six coins to the bag of half filled water. Squeeze the excess air out then seal it closed. Tie string securely around the top of the bag, then suspend by your window. Tie to the handle so the bag of water hangs freely within the frame of the open window.

How does it work? The water and the pennies create a prism that reflects an array of rainbow colours which are overwhelming to a fly's eyes. Flies have compound eyes so the bags look like a bigger  body of water to them and they don't like water, therefore they leave.

Make sure you've tied all your knots tight enough, a bag full of water spilled all over the house might be more unwelcome than even the flies!

It actually does work, this was my home last year testing it out after the buzz created on social media. It was notable the lack of flies who were tempted through the open windows during hot spells. 

How to get rid of flies inside the house with vinegar

'If your kitchen has fruit flies, you should half fill a glass with apple cider vinegar and cover it with cling film and poke small holes into the cling film,' advises Polly from Tap Warehouse.

'This should attract the fruit flies to enter the glass and you can then let them free outside of your home. It’s also important to store your fruit in the fridge to prevent flies from returning.'

How to get rid of flies in the house with wine

On the rare occasion that you might have leftover wine, you can actually make use of it as a makeshift fly trap. 

Tara Dutton, sustainable living expert at Buy Me Once, experimented with filling 3 small glasses with white wine, red wine, and apple cider vinegar, mixed with some washing-up liquid. 

She said this resulted in 'drowned fruit flies in all three glasses with the red wine as the clear winner. If you can bear to use some wine in this way it's much more pleasant than spraying toxic chemicals over your kitchen counters'. 

If you keep the glasses close to a window, for example in a kitchen, then you'll be able to catch the flies just as they enter the room, so you don't have to deal with them getting lost around your home. 

What smells will keep flies away?

There are various smells that can deter flies, to act as a natural cleaning hack to repel them from entering your home.

Mint, lemongrass and lavender essential oils

'The smell of essential oils like mint, lemongrass and lavender are hated by flies,' says Polly from TapWarehouse. 'You can create your own natural fly deterrent spray by adding a few drops of any of these oils to water in a spray bottle. We recommend lavender so the spray will also leave your kitchen smelling fresh. '

'Simply spray the natural remedy around your kitchen throughout the day and it should deter flies from entering.'

Vodka

'Flies cannot bear the smell of vodka, so you may want to use a spray that contains vodka to ensure that no flies enter your home' advises Walter. 'You can also place vodka bags around your home, especially in areas like the kitchen, in order to prevent any food contamination.'

FAQs

It's never pleasant walking into the kitchen and seeing a swarm of ants scurrying towards our cabinets. Knowing how to get rid of ants is essential if you want to enjoy cooking and dining in peace.

Unfortunately, it's in our culinary spaces that we're most likely to find ants, because they're attracted to food. It's also the last place we want to find pests, and if you've recently noticed a line of ants marching through your kitchen, you need to know how to get rid of ants in the house, and fast.

'Ants will enter a home to find and retrieve food for their queen,' says Glen Peskett, DIY and home improvement expert at Saxton Blades. 'Even the smallest crumbles can attract them, and so can grease or residue on your counter or cooker. Ants are most active during the summer months, and any heavy rain can force them to leave their garden nest and relocate to dry spaces such as your home.'

Knowing how to get rid of ants in a house requires a slightly different approach to how to kill ants' nests in a lawn. We've asked pest control experts to share their top tips for getting rid of these unwanted visitors.

How to get rid of ants in the house

The sad thing about ant infestations is that they rarely come alone. They come in the thousands, and it's not a pretty sight. Fortunately, just like you can learn how to get rid of flies in the house, you can learn how to get rid of these pests, too. The methods in our guide will show you how to get rid of ants so that they don't come back again.

What you'll need

• Sealant - browse the many sealants available at Amazon
• Boric acid - you can buy boric acid in bulk from Amazon
• Sugar - stock up on sugar at Amazon

Step by step

1. Locate the entry point

To learn how to get rid of ants in your house and rid yourself of these scurrying pests, you need to find out how they're getting into your home. You might have to play detective a bit to locate their point of entry, so observe their movements and follow their trail – you probably won't be able to miss it, given that they come in such high numbers.

'There is a possibility that ants could be entering the building through an open door, a window, or even through small cracks or holes in the structure itself,' says Nigel Bearman. 'Most commonly, they can be found within the interior walls of the house, within the window frames, indoors or in hidden locations.

2. Seal their entry points

Now you've found the entry points, they need to be sealed so the ants can't keep getting through them. Use either diatomaceous earth, caulk, or another sealant.

'In addition to sealing cracks and small holes, diatomaceous earth can also be applied to edges where ants have been active, and it can be sprayed on walls when it is wet,' he says. 'Sealing up entry points can also be accomplished with caulk. It can be used to seal cracks around doors and windows.'

Whichever type of sealant you use, apply to cracks and gaps per the manufacturer's instructions, and make sure you're not leaving any holes exposed. Ants are tiny after all, so they'll be able to fit through any kind of gap.

Three to try

3. Clean any traces of food

'Ants are attracted to anything that’s sweet and sticky, which is why you are most likely to find ants in kitchen cupboards or areas where food is kept,' says Paul Blackhurst, Head of Technical Academy, Rentokil Pest Control. 'Once an ant has discovered a food source it leaves a pheromone trail, for other ants from the colony to follow.'

Knowing how to clean kitchen cabinets properly is a gamechanger when dealing with ants. All food should be stored so none of it is left exposed, and don't leave any spillages or crumbs lying around for the ants to find. And if your garden has outdoor kitchen ideas - or if you're hosting alfresco dining at any point - definitely make sure you're clearing away any leftover food.

4. Fix any leaks and drips

If you have any taps that are going drip drip drip, these could be encouraging ants to come into your home, as they're always on the lookout for water sources. You can learn how to fix a dripping tap yourself easily enough, so get your plumbing sealed up and eliminate this source of attraction.

5. Clear any low-hanging branches

Make sure you clear any branches that are touching your windows because ants love nesting in foliage and under trees.

Also, if you have any vines growing up the side of your home or have any vegetation touching your home, trim it to stop an entry point for ants.

6. Use boric acid

Now you've cleared away all the factors attracting ants to your house, and their means of getting in, it's time to learn how to get rid of ants that just won't seem to go. You can buy pre-made ant poison, but Jordan Foster, Pest Technician at Fantastic Pest Control recommends creating a boric acid-based bait for increased chances of success.

Mix in one part boric acid, with three parts sugar or syrup and one part hot water to create a sugary paste. Place the mixture around the entrances to the ant nest if you know where it is, or along active chemical trails. The ants will feed on the bait and return to the nest and transfer the poison to the queen and colony.

You don’t want the mixture to be so strong it kills the ants immediately because you want them alive to take the poison back to the nest. Keep doing this until you have eliminated the infestation and keep replacing the boric acid mixture as needed.

Home remedies for getting rid of ants

The internet is full of other methods and old wives' tales about how to get rid of ants which can make it hard to know which ones are truly effective. However, these are a few other expert-approved and reliable ways that will prevent ants from getting comfortable in your home.

1. Chalk

‘Chalk can be used to create a barrier around doors, windows, and cracks', says Jordan. Drawing a line of chalk disrupts the pheromones that ants follow, but it is only a short-term fix.

2. Coffee grounds

‘Coffee grounds can keep sugar ants away, but use them only outside around entryways', says Jordan.

This method works by confusing the ants sense of smell, however it can take a while to be effective.

3. Talcum powder

‘Talcum or baby powder is a safer alternative for pets and kids, and diatomaceous earth can be used for carpenter ants and other pests.’

Again this method doesn't directly kill ants but will stop them coming into the house by disrupting the scent trail.

Fill in any cracks with talcum powder where ants could get in, especially around window frames and doors.

5. Glass cleaner and dish soap

Combine spray glass cleaner with liquid detergent or dish soap to deter ants from coming into your home. The mixture will remove the ant's scented pheromone trail that they leave behind as they walk.

Spray the mixture anywhere ants congregate or originate from and look out for products with eucalyptus or mint because ants hate those smells.

6. Spices

Line the outside of your doors and window frames with kitchen spices such as salt, curry powder, pepper and cinnamon which act as deterrents.

Pepper or Cayenne Pepper works a double whammy as the strong spicy scent irritates ants. However, these strong-smelling spices also confuse the ant's senses.

7. Ant powder

If you decide to use an ant powder or trap such as Raid available on Amazon to kill ants, Jordan Foster from Pest Control Expert says, ‘Make sure that any bait you use is specifically labelled for ants, and carefully follow the directions on the package, including wearing protective gloves. The most common insecticides in ant baits are abamectin, fipronil, and propoxur.'

‘While an aerosol spray (like Raid Ant Killer) can kill ants on contact, it may not affect the rest of the ant population that may be hidden out of sight. Be sure to check the label of any aerosol insecticide you use, such as permethrin, bifenthrin, or cyfluthrin, to ensure that it is intended for indoor use.’

When you are using a chemical solution, make sure you are careful to keep it away from children and pets.

FAQs

What is the fastest way to get rid of ants?

To get rid of ants quickly, you'll first need to eliminate any food sources that are attracting them into your home. 'Identify and clean up spills, crumbs, and food residue that may attract ants,' says Jordan Foster. 'Dispose of garbage promptly, store food in sealed containers, and keep your kitchen and dining areas clean.'

Seal up any entry points with caulk or sealant. Then you can use natural deterrents, like coffee, white vinegar, citrus peel, or peppermint oil, which work to disrupt the pheromone trails that guide other ants.

Experts also recommend placing some ant bait traps to attract large numbers of ants - it may seem counterproductive at first, but there's a method to the madness, as the ants will carry the poison back to the nest to kill the queen and the rest of the colony.

'There are several types of pre-bait, including sweet, sticky foods (such as honey or syrup) and fried foods (such as chips or fried meat),' says Nigel from Daily Poppins. 'Try different pre-baits to determine which attracts the most ants. It is important to keep in mind that different baits are more effective at different times of the year.'

Place ant poison with the bait trap, and it should effectively eliminate the colony so they don't come into your house again. We recommend using boric acid and following the method we laid out earlier in the guide.

How do I permanently get rid of ants?

Ants are essential to a balanced ecosystem and help us by eating up other household and garden pests like fleas and bed bugs. For this reason, destroying an ants' nest should only be a very last resort.

The ants you see in your house and scuttling around the pavement are only 10 per cent of the colony. If you are seriously struggling with an infestation, then you're going to need to target the nest.

To target the nest, expose the top of the nest and pour an entire kettle of boiling water over the nest to destroy all the ants in the colony including the ant queen.

Blocking up entry points is also a fundamental step when it comes to how to get rid of mice - head to our guide for preventative measures to keep mice away.

What do ants hate the most?

‘Ants hate the smell of mint. Try scattering fresh mint around your home, particularly near entry points. Alternatively, use a few drops of peppermint essential oil on a cotton wool pad and wipe the areas of your home where ants tend to appear,' says Tim Warren, DIY Expert, Adkwik.

'Ants also are not fans of citrus smells. Mix lemon juice and water using a 1:3 ratio and spray this in a similar fashion to the vinegar mixture, or use any leftover citrus peels for the same results. This is especially effective at removing scent trails that ants use to remember where they have found food.'

‘Sprinkling cayenne pepper can help to deter ants as they do not like the strong smell, however, this is not recommended if you have any young children or pets who may eat it. Many insects can be repelled by the smell of lavender. Keep ants away by placing lavender pots around your house and near doorways.’

Other smells ants hate include cinnamon, eucalyptus, grapefruit and garlic, so place these around potential entry points.

EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this article included a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote has been removed. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Knowing how to get rid of mosquitoes is unfortunately no longer just an issue for holidays in the sun, but with rising temperatures the UK has we're facing mozzie bites in our own homes.

Of course, prevention is always better than cure, so we've spoken with the experts to find out exactly how to repel mosquitoes so we can enjoy our meticulously thought out garden ideas in peace.

And since, according to the British Pest Control Association, the UK is home to more than 30 types of native mosquito species, some of which bite, it's best to get moving quickly to save yourself from those itchy bites. In fact, sales of the Thermacell Mosquito & Midge Repeller, £34.99, Lakeland shot up by over 137% recently, so these pests are here and aren't staying quiet about it.

How to get rid of mosquitoes

We've never really questioned if citronella candles actually repel mosquitoes, and since we've recently found out that they're not actually more helpful than regular smoke, it's time to learn what we should actually be doing.

1. Citronella in other forms

Yep, the news that citronella candles won't help with how to get rid of mosqitoes threw us for a loop, too. But it's not as dramatic as it sounds. Citronella still has its place in repelling these irritating pests, just not necessarily in candle form.

Using citronella oil in a diffuser is actually the most effective method because it continuously releases the fragrance. Who knew?!

2. Other citrus scents

It's not just the age-old citronella which comes into play. 'Similar with how to get rid of wasps, mosquitos hate the smell of anything citrus,' explains Dominic Lees-Bell, cleaning expert at Tap Warehouse.

'Cut a lemon in half and stick some cloves into the lemon to make it extra pungent to these small flies.'

3. Essential oils

It's not just the scent of citrus which will help with how to get rid of mosquitoes, there are other natural essential oils which are worth a look. Christopher Nye, overseas living expert at YourOverseasHome.com, takes us through these:

• Tea tree oil, from £5.99 at Amazon: 'Tea tree oil is known for its antiseptic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, but studies also suggest that tea tree oil may be an effective insect repellent, as its intense aroma keeps bugs like mosquitoes at bay. Its powerful medicinal properties also mean that, if you do end up being bitten, it can help to heal mosquito bites fast.'
• Lemon eucalyptus oil, from £5.95 at Amazon: 'The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in America have even approved it as an effective ingredient in mosquito repellent! You can create your own mixture using 1 part lemon eucalyptus oil to 10 parts sunflower oil or witch hazel.'
• Cinnamon oil, from £3.99 at Amazon: 'Cinnamon oil has shown promise as a great-smelling, environmentally friendly pesticide, and it even has the ability to kill mosquito larvae! It also acts as a repellent against adult mosquitoes, which provides a real win-win scenario.'

4. Plant thoughtfully

Clever use of planting will actually help with how to get rid of mosquitoes from the garden and home.

The pest-deterring geraniol and linalool are naturally present in many flowers and herbs, think geraniums, lavender and mint.

'Marigolds are really versatile plants in the garden and many gardeners claim they are a good deterrent of unwanted insects like mosquitoes,' adds Henry Bartlam, Founder of Dig Club.

5. Cover any standing water

Standing water is a firm favourite for mosquitoes. In fact, they even lay their eggs in batches of stagnant water.

Clear your gutters regularly of damp leaves and debris, check buckets in your garden, tip up wheelbarrows, drain old pots and your watering can, and so on.

6. Cover doors and windows

Mosquitoes enter the home through open doors and windows, but it can be a struggle to keep these closed in hot weather - even though closed windows will actually help with keeping a bedroom cool.

'There are steps you can take to keep the flies at bay whilst bringing cool air into the home,' says James Talyor, Product Director at Make My Blinds. 'Firstly, if you don’t already have them fitted in your home then venetian blinds or net or voile curtains are a great way to keep pests at bay.'

'Venetian blinds can help to keep your home cool and tilting them on an angle means that you can keep the windows open, whilst reducing the chances of pests entering the property.'

7. Ensure an air flow

Yep, we have just said you need to keep those doors and windows closed where necessary, but you have to keep the air moving.

If you don’t have a hard working portable AC, open windows at the front and back of the house, leave room doors open and use one of the best fans to help circulate the air.

• Pour a little apple cider vinegar into a bottle.
• Make a funnel with a piece of paper and place it in the mouth of the bottle.
• Place the bottle in the area of your home where you're seeing the most mosquitoes.
• The mosquitoes will trap themselves in after being attracted by the aroma of the apple vinegar.