ants on okra

[Warren]

I know that some ants on them are ok. I think that might be how the flower is pollination. but the last two flowers I have had the result in a okra baby. the small okra nub has been covered with ants. I mean really covered. you look at it and think wow that plant is growing ants.

Why are they doing this? cause of the rain? can I stop them if okra is pollination another way.

[duajones]

Okra is self pollinating but you could try soapy water on the ants

[Warren]

Originally Posted by duajones

Okra is self pollinating but you could try soapy water on the ants

sweet. I will nip them in the bud.

[jdwhitaker]

The ants may be after aphids on the okra--they like the honeydew the aphids produce. Getting rid of aphids (if you have them) might be the solution. I have seen okra with ants and no aphids. They usually aren't a problem unless it's fire ants, which will harm the blooms and pods (as well as you!) A spinosad bait should be safe around the vegetable garden if you have fire ants.

Jason

[Warren]

they are fire ants. my foot is burning

[jdwhitaker]

Nasty little suckers. You'll want to get rid of them. Here's an article I found on treating for fireants in the home garden...

http://www.extension.org/pages/Manag...r_Home_Gardens