We’ve noticed we don’t find monarch caterpillars on milkweed plants that have ants on them. We’ve also noticed if ants start coming on a plant with a caterpillar on it, the caterpillar disappears. It doesn’t seem to show up on a neighboring milkweed plant either.

I’m wondering if anyone has a way they keep ants off these plants so the caterpillars can continue their life cycle in peace.

  • Hello_there@fedia.io
    5·
    3 months ago

    Argentinian ants are used to irrigation. Stopping irrigation can reduce amount of nests.

    You could also try to kill the aphids on some other host plants. Or try to move your trash containers

    • ChaosCoati@midwest.socialOPEnglish
      2·
      3 months ago

      Thanks! They’re growing in my vegetable garden but as long as my strawberries don’t look too stressed I’ll try watering that area less.

      I’ll check around for aphids too. Our trash cans are on the other side of the house