Peonies are plants known for their large, fragrant blooms. However, a common problem that peony growers face is ants gathering on the flowers. The peony buds secrete a sap that is rich in carbohydrates and the ants feed on this substance. The relationship between ants and peonies goes back so long that it is believed that somehow ants play an important role in making peonies bloom. However, this belief is not true. So, it doesn't matter if you keep ants away from peonies in your garden or cut peonies in your home.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Removing Ants from the Peony Clump
Step 1. For a quick solution, spray the peonies with water
To temporarily get rid of ant infestations, spray the peony clumps with a strong stream of water. This will kill any ants in the clump, but will not permanently prevent the arrival of other ants.
Step 2. Spray the peonies with an insecticide for a longer lasting solution
Look for an insecticidal spray soap and make sure the label specifically states that the product is effective at getting rid of ants. Apply insecticide according to directions for use, usually 2-3 times a week for 2 weeks.
This method generally doesn't work if you're committed to organic gardening or don't want to kill the beneficial insects that help pollinate plants
Step 3. Choose a natural ant repellent to avoid using insecticides
Mix 2-3 tablespoons (30-45 mL) of peppermint oil with 1 L of water in a spray bottle to make a natural ant repellent. Spray the solution onto the peony stalks and around the clump to prevent the arrival of ants.
Instead of peppermint oil, you can also use 2-3 tablespoons (30-45 mL) of chopped red pepper or garlic. Mix the ingredients with 1 L of water and spray the solution onto the peony clumps. Or try a solution made of 1 part apple cider vinegar to 1 part water
Step 4. Prevent ants from climbing on plant stems with a homemade trap
If your goal is to keep ants from swarming the peonies forever, just make a simple ant trap using paper and petroleum jelly. Cut the paper into circles 15 cm wide. Split the paper by making a straight cut from the outer edge to the center of the circle, then punch a hole in the center of the paper. Coat one side of the paper with petroleum jelly. After that, wrap the paper around the stem of the peony plant, with the stem in the center of the circle.
If the oil is applied to the side of the paper facing up, the ants climbing the plant will be trapped in the oil
Step 5. Plant peonies near ant repellent plants
Another way to prevent ants from gathering on peonies is to plant ant repellent plants nearby. Some common plants that can repel ants are geranium, mint, garlic, and calendula (marigold).
Method 2 of 2: Keeping Ants away from Cut Peonies
Step 1. Cut and rinse the peony while the flowers are still budding and are in the “marshmallow stage”
The new peony buds show some of the corolla and feel as soft as marshmallows when gently kneaded, ready to cut. Before bringing in, rinse with cold water to get rid of ants. Put the flowers in a vase to bloom.
For a more effective cleaning, you can add a few drops of dish soap to the water. A mild soapy solution will not damage the flowers
Step 2. Gently shake the blooming peonies before bringing them inside
If you're cutting off a blooming peony to take inside, hold the flower upside down and gently shake it once or twice. Check for any ants that may still be left on the flower crown and snap them out with your fingers.
You can also rinse the peonies in cold water
Step 3. Prevent ants from approaching the peonies with honey and borax
Make an ant trap by mixing 1 tablespoon (15 mL) honey, 1 tablespoon (15 mL) hot water, and 1 tablespoon (26 grams) borax. Spread the solution on a flat surface, such as a piece of paper or cardboard, and place it near the flowers. The ants will be attracted to the honey, but will die after eating the borax.
This solution is not safe if you have small children or pets in your home because it is toxic if swallowed
Step 4. Sprinkle cinnamon powder on the flowers to repel ants naturally
Ants don't like cinnamon. So, if you don't mind the flowers smelling spicy, sprinkle a little cinnamon on the florets or flower crowns. You can also place cinnamon sticks near peonies.
Tips
- Consider that ants and peonies live in harmony. Often, the ants don't harm the peonies, but only eat the nectar.
- Do not plant peonies near the house, especially near the kitchen. The ants in the flowers can enter the house more easily.
