Ants in the Rose Bed: Nuisance or Threat?

A gardener in Zone 5 (Ohio) found thousands of brownish-black ants in the soil while planting a 'Blushing Knockout' rose. They asked if ants harm roots or the plant, and how to remove them organically.

Ants Don't Eat Roots or Aphids

Ants are not plant pests. They farm aphids for honeydew (aphid excrement), protecting them from predators. Ants don't damage roots directly.

Why They're There

You likely disturbed an existing nest. Ants are stubborn—destroy one mound, they rebuild nearby.

Organic Control Options

• Boiling water + Borax poured into nest entrances (repeat as needed).
• Diatomaceous earth around base (reapply after rain).
• Beneficial nematodes (Steinernema) target ant larvae in soil.
• Relocate the rose if nest is directly under planting hole—easiest solution.

Chemical note: Carpenter ants (large, black) resist most baits. For typical small ants, borax-sugar baits work.

Ants are a nuisance, not a threat. Choose tolerance or persistent organic management.