This is how the animals improve the earth

How do ants contribute to humus formation?

ants decompose garden waste and loosen the soil up. If there are few ants on the ground under plants, that's not a bad sign. The animals cut up leaves and smaller garden waste and carry away excess seeds or leftover fruit. It is not for nothing that they are also known as a kind of biological waste disposal. With their Task the ants loosen that too soil on. This ensures good ventilation. This in turn promotes the decomposition of organic materials in the garden floor.

Which factors promote a humus-rich soil?

The crushing and decomposition organic materials microorganisms in loose soil with a suitable air supply. At this point, ants only do a kind of preparatory work. With your activity you create exactly the right conditions for the work of microorganisms and animals such as earthworms. In order to gain soil rich in humus, however, it is important that the ants do their normal work on the soil. On the other hand, when ant trails form up the leaves of plants, this indicates

When do ants cause problems in humus-rich soil?

You should react to the formation of ant nests in the root area. Ants often prefer to settle in drier areas or dead root areas. An ant nest on a plant root contributes less to humus rich soil. It undermines the plant or tree. As a result, the plant loses its stability. If the roots are undermined by ants and no longer grip the soil layer as well, this also hinders the supply of nutrients to the plant.

How do I help ants form humus rich soil?

mulching the floor occasionally and pay attention to the right measure humidity. Basically, you should avoid waterlogging. This can not only make life difficult for plants. Excessive humidity can also ensure that a mulch layer, leaves or compost rot rather than grow humus to decompose. You should also avoid adding large amounts of lime. Lime is counterproductive in the formation of humus. You should keep this in mind when applying fertilizer.