Natural Ways to Keep Ants Out of Landscaping Rocks

Ants are quick to build anthills in the sand that is prevalent around most yards in the Las Vegas area. In particular, they will build anthills around decorative rock in Las Vegas because the rocks provide some shade and protection from the elements. These tips will help you to avoid the unsightly look of anthills in your landscaping.

Put a Fabric Liner Under the Rocks

Before the decorative rocks are installed on your property, ask the installation team to put a fabric liner under the rocks and above the sand or base layer. This fabric will help to prevent the ants from making their way between the rocks. It will also help with drainage of water around the landscaping rocks.

Grow Fragrant Herbs

Fragrant plants and herbs will also help to keep ants away from your landscaping. Mint and catnip are two good herbs that grow well and do not require a lot of attention. These herbs will spread if they are not contained, so it might be a good idea to bury the planter in the ground so their roots do not grow between the rocks. You could also plant them in planters above the ground

Sprinkle Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth

Food-grade diatomaceous earth is a highly effective and natural insecticide. It is the shells of diatoms that lived in the oceans millions of years ago. This material looks like a powdery chalk or sand. It can be sprinkled in areas where insects such as ants are crawling around. When the insects walk across it, the microscopically sharp shells damage the soft parts of the insect. It is not harmful to pets, birds or other wildlife. It is also safe for people, and it can be used around edible landscaping. Diatomaceous earth can be reapplied as often as needed.