Use the concentrated liquid form on your potted plants. Follow the product instructions to make an effective permethrin solution and apply as instructed. [1] X Trustworthy Source University of California Integrated Pest Management Program Research-based pest management program run by the University of California’s Cooperative Extension Go to source If you, a family member, or pet are sprayed with and ingest permethrin, call a doctor or vet immediately. [2] X Trustworthy Source National Pesticide Information Center Organization run by Oregon State University providing objective, science-based information about pests and pesticides Go to source

You can purchase ant bait in stick form and insert it directly into the infested potted plant. You may also use a reusable bait station. Since this trap is refillable, this method is ideal to eradicate a substantial infestation. Fill the reusable bait station with the insecticide of your choice. Close the station and set it near the base of the plant. Check the bait station frequently so that you can empty and or refill it as needed. [3] X Trustworthy Source University of California Integrated Pest Management Program Research-based pest management program run by the University of California’s Cooperative Extension Go to source Baits are considered the safest form of insecticide. Before using ant baits, however, always read the label to ensure that it is safe to use around children and pets. [4] X Research source Purchase baits that include one of the following active ingredients: hydramethylnon, fipronil, boric acid, or avermectin B. Do not purchase baits that contain cyfluthrin or permethrin. These fast-attacking insecticides will kill the worker ant before it can reach the colony. [5] X Trustworthy Source University of California Integrated Pest Management Program Research-based pest management program run by the University of California’s Cooperative Extension Go to source

This product is less effective when wet. Reapply this product after watering, rain, or heavy dew. [6] X Research source Do not inhale this product. Store the remaining product inside a sealed bag to limit your exposure to the product. [7] X Research source

Remove ants from your plant’s foliage by spraying it with water from a hose. [9] X Research source

Grab a clean bucket. Fill the bucket with 1 gallon of water. (If your potted plant is large, double or triple the amount of water). Stir in 1 cup of insecticidal soap or dish soap or detergent per 1 gallon of water. Some dish soaps and detergents are a milder, less expensive, but less reliable alternatives to insecticidal soap. Branded dish soaps and detergents include: Dawn, Palmolive, Dove, Ivory, and Joy. [10] X Research source

Insecticidal soap is mild and safe to use in organic gardens. These soaps contain specially formatted potassium fatty acids that kill insects on contact but are not harmful to humans or animals. Since these soaps have a low mammalian toxicity, they are considered safe to use around children and pets and are approved for use on organic farms. While it should not ruin your yard or garden, you may wish to work on a concrete patio or driveway to reduce any possible risk of damage. [12] X Research source

This is a messy job—work in a spot that can get dirty and wet. [15] X Research source

If the plant’s roots are getting too big for the pot, replant it in a larger pot. [17] X Research source

Cut out a ring of contact paper that fits tightly around the base of your potted plant. Separate the two layers and place the non-sticky side of the contact paper on the ground. Set your plant directly in the center of the contact paper ring (on top of the sticky side). Replace as needed. [20] X Research source