Ants on New Plants: Remove the Sugar Bait First

Ants swarming new petunias, dahlia, and potato plant are attracted to the butterfly feeder (sugar water + cantaloupe). Remove the feeder — that's the source. Wait 1–2 days; ants should leave. If not, repel with cotton balls soaked in camphor, mint, or clove essential oil at plant bases.

For butterflies, plant nectar flowers they love (search by your zone) instead of artificial feeders.

— Vikki