Ants in my rosemary plant

sahararose

I've discovered an absolutely huge colony of ants in the bottom of the compost in my rosemary plant. The plant itself seems just as healthy as ever - very big, beautiful flowers again - gorgeous. But is it safe to eat rosemary that's had ants in the compost ?

Many thanks for any advice.

brownfrog

Rosemary does seem to attract them - I had exactly the same problem in my old house. I plant rosemary in the garden now, which doesn't seem to cause half the problems.

Yes, you're fine - people eat ants! If you're a bit squeamish at the thought, then pick the leaves an hour or so before you go to eat them, spray them with water and leave them on something (table, pot, whatever) in the garden to allow the ants to take off.

sahararose

Thanks brownfrog. I've never seen any ants on the actual leaves.....just hiundreds in the compost. I just needed to check for my own peace of mind of the plant was still safe to eat .....so thank you !!