My $6 ‘magic dust’ keeps ants away from your garden – a few items already in your kitchen will do the trick too

TOXIC chemicals aren’t necessary for deterring ants from plants, says a gardening expert.

He revealed the three tips he swears by for keeping the pests away amid a spike in online searches for how to get rid of ants.

Regardless of the warm weather, sitting in the garden can seem unappealing when filled with biting critters.

The six-legged creatures can cause further annoyance if they manage to work their way into your house.

Craig Wilson is the co-founder of online retailer , which specializes in all things plant life and pet care.

He revealed there are three affordable solutions for making ants flee from your garden without using harsh chemicals.

UNPLEASANT ODOR

He recommended deterring the creatures by filling your garden with a scent that they detest.

“I'm a big fan of using what nature gives us to solve our little problems,” Wilson said.

“Things like citrus peels, cinnamon, or even peppermint oil around your plants can make a huge difference. 

“Ants are not fans of these scents, and it's a great way to keep them at bay, naturally. Plus, your garden will smell amazing.”

BBC Gardener’s World presenter Mark Lane previously revealed a homemade garlic solution can repel pests.

He said a gold-medal-award-winning hosta grower at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show taught him to make the mixture.

He said to crush two full bulbs of garlic in two liters of boiling water to “release the juices.”

Two tablespoons of garlic concentrate should then be added to a 4.5-liter watering can before drenching plants weekly.