Black Ants Eating Rose Buds and Canes in South Dakota

Ants rarely damage roses directly—they farm aphids for honeydew. But some species (even all-black ones) chew buds and girdle canes to induce sap flow. Your description (wobbly canes, buds wilting, ants on buds) confirms direct feeding.

Control Without Harming Roses

• Borax-icing sugar bait: 1:1 ratio in small containers near trails (keep away from pets).
• Lysol spray: 50/50 water, spray base of canes and soil—repels ants.
• Diatomaceous earth around crown.
• Tanglefoot on cane bases to block climbing.

Avoid Sevin—kills bees. Baits eliminate colonies; sprays only deter foragers.