I have been keeping my babies outside since it is too cold in the house right now. They are now under attack! Spiders, which I guess won't hurt them, but there are these little "inch worms" or some little worms are eating my leaves! Also, ANTS!! What is the best way to get rid of these critters and keep them away?

Thanx so much!

Angela H
Louisville, KY

For immediate relief, fill a deep bucket with water and add 1 teaspoon per gallon of liquid dishsoap (I use Dawn). Dip the plants in this solution for about 2 minutes. Allow to drain for about 5 minutes and then rinse off with water. This should kill all the pests you've mentioned. You can put this mixture in a spray bottle and spray periodically too.

It will also be a good idea to do this when you're ready to bring them in so that you don't bring pests inside for the winter!!

There is not much that can be done to deter spiders and ants. I have had some luck with using Amdro for the ants--they'd rather eat that than get into the plants. Put it on the ground near the plants, not in them. Worms and spiders are difficult to deter--just keep an eye out for them.

Really? Dishsoap? It won't hurt my plant to soak it in dishsoap? I am really surprised! I'll give that a try, then. Thanks, Susan. I have heard that cucumbers keep ants away. I bought one to try but we've had so much rain, I haven't had my babies outside for the past two days (they are in my garage!) I'll let you know if I have any success with that!

Angi