Ant Infestation

[Alison]

Clearing another bed at the weekend and came across loads of ants - possibly a nest. Never had to deal with this many before so unsure how to proceed. Any ideas what I can do to deter them apart from disturb the ground (which I've already done!)?

Thanks in advance.

[Hazel at the Hill]

Yep - I reackon that you have it covered - furtle around with the fork, if you see lots of ants carrying eggs away, you've found the nest then make a strategic retreat so the birds can eat their fill.

Mind you, ants (even nests) have never been a trouble to my veg (except with aphids/black fly on the broadies), and they don't seem to bite me, so I don't worry about them.

[shirlthegirl43]

Apparently a small bottle of oil of cloves (available from your pharmacist) added to a watering can of water and watered on to the area will drive them away.