Itty bitty tiny black ants?

17 years ago

I have noticed in the past year or so, these REALLY small black ants crawling up and down a maple tree we have in the back yard. Then I noticed them on a small oak thats growing in the backyard. Then I saw them crawling all over our chain link fence!!! I mean they are everywhere and if I shake whatever they are on, or put my finger close to em, they freeze. Then when all is quiet again they start moving. I never worried about them cause they dont SEEM to hurt anything.

Last night however, I was messing with my strawberry plants that are planted in a container. (well here is a pic)

Anyhoo, there are those little buggers all over the container and all in the soil! They were also all over the deck.

Now I was wondering, what are they and are they hurtful? Should I try to get rid of them? And if I need to get rid of them, what should I use?

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Comment (1)

earthnut
17 years ago
The ants probably aren't harmful directly, but they may be farming aphids on your plants. This probably wouldn't hurt your trees, but take a close look at your strawberries to see if you notice any aphids. If you do, insecticidal soap will work.

Second, make sure they are not carpender ants. (I don't know anything about those, but I'd make sure they weren't before ignoring them). They can also be a nuisance in the kitchen where they get into food. You'll need to hire someone to make sure your house is well sealed to fix that.

However, if they are not carpender ants and you don't see them in your house or any aphids on your plants, I wouldn't worry about them. They may simply be swarming. Ants will do that sometimes, but don't seem to hurt anything except maybe a bite on your skin. :)
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Itty bitty tiny black ants?

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earthnut

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