Ask the Plant Doctor! Keeping ants away and indoor plants for your office

There are many plants that do well indoors. Photo: 123rf.com

Do you have a question about plants or how to maintain your garden? Send your questions to the Plant Doctor! Email your questions to [e-mail] with "Plant Doctor" in the subject field. Questions may be edited for brevity and clarity.

Q1. How do I get rid of ants in my garden? - Faridah Noor

Several safe and effective strategies are available to you to control ants in your garden. As a start, consider using borax, also known as boric acid, as an ant bait. In powdered form, borax can be mixed with sugar and water in equal proportions. Soak several cotton balls in this mixture, then place them in a shallow dish or open container, like a large bottle cap, and leave them in areas frequented by the ants. The ants will carry the bait back to their colony, exterminating the population.Secondly, you can apply Diatomaceous Earth (DE) to areas where you notice ant activity. Composed of microscopic aquatic organisms that have fossilised, DE is harmless to humans and pets, but is lethal to ants, as well as to snails and slugs. Its abrasive texture inflicts damage on the ants, leading to dehydration and subsequent death.

Thirdly, you can attempt to trace the ant trails back to their colony and pour hot boiling water into it. You might have to do this a few times to eliminate the ants and destroy their colony.

Finally, natural repellents like cinnamon, vinegar and citrus peels can also be utilised. Distribute these substances in the areas of your garden impacted by the ants.

Remember, managing ants is a process that requires patience.

It could take several weeks and multiple rounds of these methods to completely control the ant population in your garden.

Q2. What kind of plants are suitable to green office spaces, particularly those that are simple to grow and easy to thrive? - Dr Mabel Tan

A variety of plant species are well adapted for indoor environments, including workspaces. Below are some top contenders for infusing your office space with a touch of nature:

• Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): Known for its low maintenance requirements, this plant thrives even in minimal light.

• Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): This versatile plant can flourish under various light conditions.

• Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum sp.): This plant presents a delightful white blossom.

• Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Ideal for hanging arrangements, this plant prefers low light environments.

• ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): Known for its hardiness, it grows well even under limited light.

• English Ivy (Hedera helix): Suitable for hanging baskets, this plant is a favourite for indoor gardening.

• Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica): Distinguished by its large, shiny leaves, this plant is happy in low light settings.

• Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema sp.): Well known for its large and colorful leaves.

• Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): With its soft, feathery fronds, this plant can introduce a verdant touch to your workspace.

• Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis): Beyond its therapeutic uses, its plump, succulent leaves make it a striking presence in any office.

When picking out plants for your office, think about factors such as lighting, air circulation and ambient temperature.

Furthermore, ensure that the plants you choose pose no risk to people or pets.

(Question 2 answered by Dr Sarah Baharudin.)

Dr Christopher Teh heads the Dept of Land Management, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia and coordinates the Healthy Garden series.