How To Get Rid Of Ants On Patio Naturally

Ants can be a nuisance on your patio, but there are several natural ways to get rid of them without resorting to harsh chemicals. Here are a few effective methods to try:

1. Eliminate Food Sources: One of the best ways to deter ants is to remove their food sources. Keep your patio clean and free of crumbs or spills, and store food in airtight containers.

2. Seal Entry Points: Ants can enter your patio through small cracks or gaps. Inspect your patio for any potential entry points and seal them with caulk or expanding foam.

3. Sprinkle Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a natural insect repellent that can deter ants. Sprinkle ground cinnamon around the perimeter of your patio and near potential entry points.

4. Use Essential Oils: Certain essential oils, such as peppermint, tea tree oil, and eucalyptus, have strong scents that ants find unpleasant. Diffuse these oils on your patio or apply them to cotton balls and place them near ant trails.

5. Create a Vinegar Barrier: Ants dislike the smell of vinegar. Create a vinegar solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray this solution around the perimeter of your patio and near ant trails.

6. Plant Ant-Repellent Plants: Certain plants, such as mint, basil, and rosemary, have natural insect-repellent properties that can deter ants. Plant these herbs around your patio to create a natural barrier.

7. Use Citrus Peels: Ants are repelled by the strong citrus scent. Place orange or lemon peels around your patio to create a natural deterrent.

8. Diatomaceous Earth: This fine powder is made from fossilized algae and has sharp edges that can dehydrate and kill ants. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of your patio and near ant trails.

9. Make a Borax Solution: Borax is a natural ant killer that can be used to create a bait solution. Mix 1 tablespoon of borax with 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water. Place the solution in shallow dishes and place them near ant trails.

10. Set up Ant Traps: You can create simple ant traps using a mixture of equal parts of sugar and baking soda. Place the mixture in a shallow dish and cover it with plastic wrap. Poke small holes in the plastic wrap to allow the ants to enter. Once the ants are inside, the baking soda will kill them.