Ants in apple tree

Discussion in 'Fruit and Nut Trees' started by englak, Apr 26, 2020.

  1. englak

    englak Active Member 10 Years

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    Hello,

    Ants are living in the trunk of this apple tree. Why would they do this, and is there anything that can be done to save the tree?

    Thanks!
     

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  2. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    Closer view needed
     
  3. vitog

    vitog Contributor 10 Years

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    If the trunk is rotten and has cavities, ants will utilize the space as a home. Alternatively, they might just be using the opening as part of a protected path to another opening higher up. They could be "farming" aphids on the young apple leaves. This happens to my apple trees every spring, and I have to renew the ring of Tree Tanglefoot on the lower trunk to stop the ants.
     

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