Q. Our backyard has always had lots of ants (not the biting kind). They are most numerous in the fruit trees, often on the fruit that we are harvesting. Other than being annoying, are they causing any problems? If so, how can we get rid of them?

- R.B., Santiago, AL

A. "Some gardeners assume that most bugs are bad and are to be eradicated, but in your case I think you've got it pegged -- the ants can be a nuisance, but they aren't causing any real harm. Ants sometimes indicate the presence of aphids -- the ants are attracted to the sweet ""honeydew"" the aphids secrete.

One way to cut down on the presence of ants in trees is to wrap tree trunks with a sticky substance that catches them when they travel up and down the tree. There are two types -- a sticky tape and a gluey substance that you spread on the bark. You'll need to check it often to make sure the ants haven't found a route around the sticky stuff.

A non-toxic way to deal with ant mounds in the garden is to pour boiling water on them. Be sure not to cook nearby plants.

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Q. Ants are crawling up and down one of our mature trees as well as several newly planted young pine trees. What are they doing and how can I get rid of them without harming the plants?

- C.C., Evanston, IL

A. "The ants you see probably aren't doing any harm themselves, but if you look more closely, you may find an aphid infestation. Aphids are tiny oval insects, sometimes called ""plant lice,"" that congregate on new growth. They suck plant juices, producing a waste product called honeydew. Ants are often found near aphid colonies, feeding on the sticky, sweet honeydew.

If you can control the primary problem -- usually aphids, sometimes whiteflies or scale -- you'll control the ants as well. Aphids can often be kept in check by dislodging them with occasional sprays from a hose. If there are no aphids present, then look closely to see if the ants are causing any damage. Most often they prey on other insects or feed on plant sap that is already leaking from wounds caused by other insects or by physical damage.

There is also an inedible herb called tansy which works well as an ant (and other insect) repellent -- try planting a few in the garden in containers. (Don't plant it directly in the garden -- it can become invasive). It is an attractive flower, and the flower heads are often used in dried arrangements. Don't eat it, however."

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