Ants in sand pit

melliec

We have built a sand pit for our toddler and it is already full of ants and their eggs. Does anyone know a way of dettering them that will keep the sand safe to play in? I was hoping there was something natural that we could sprinkle in that the ants will hate...any ideas?

Errata

I've just found an ants nest, poured two kettles of boiling water on it and with luck that will be the end of it.

Valli

I would stir it up with a fork or a shovel...
then get out of the way
repeat frequently
they hate being disturbed and will move..

melliec

Thanks people! I think we will do the disturbing the sand thing and if that fails then a kettle of water...If I can bring myself to do that:(

Errata

You will if you get bitten by a couple or three of the little darlings !

Le-y

Tansy plants they hate them - grow them near the sandpit and they will move

dawnsong

they don't like mint - if you happen to have essential oil of peppermint - put some in a watering can full of water and water the sand with it, they should quickly move elsewhere. mint plants should deter them too.