There’s something quite reassuring about spotting ants busy at work in the garden – clambering over logs, weaving through grass, going about their business. Inside, though, it’s another story entirely.
And at this time of year, they have a habit of appearing out of nowhere. Leave the smallest crumb on a worktop or floor, and before long, there's a trail.
Spring and early summer mark the start of peak ant season, when warmer temperatures send them searching for food – often straight into our kitchens. The good news is there’s a simple, natural deterrent you may already have to hand: fresh mint.
Ants rely heavily on scent trails (pheromones) to navigate. Strong smells – like mint – can disrupt those trails, making it harder for them to find their way and encouraging them to move on. But simply keeping a pot on the windowsill won’t do much on its own. It’s how you use it that makes the difference.
1. Start outside, not in
The most effective approach is to stop ants before they come indoors. Place pots of mint near entry points outside – doorways, back steps, or along walls where you've spotted activity. It creates a natural barrier that can help deter them early on.
2. Focus on where they're getting in
Once inside, target the areas ants tend to use as entry points. Think door thresholds, window sills (especially any small gaps), and cracks in walls or along skirting boards.
3. Crush the leaves to release the scent
A whole sprig won't do much unless the oils are released. Lightly crush or bruise the leaves, then rub them along entry points or place them where you’ve seen ants trailing. The stronger the scent, the more effective it is.
4. Make a simple mint spray
For a slightly more thorough approach, turn it into a quick spray.
Steep a handful of mint leaves in hot water for 10–15 minutes, then leave to cool and pour into a spray bottle. Use it along door frames, window edges and anywhere you’ve spotted a trail.
The herb garden edit
Personalised Gardening Year Seed Box Organiser
