The most neglected area of landscape maintenance is proper watering of trees and shrubs. Many ants are more prone to insect and disease attacks if they are stressed by lack of water. Watering your lawn is no assurance that adequate water is reaching the roots of your trees. Turf roots are shallow and thick, making it difficult for water penetration deep within the soil.
Trickle Irrigation
To water trees and shrubs properly, you need to use the trickle irrigation technique. Place a hose near the base of the tree or shrub and let the water run at a trickle for a few minutes. This method allows water to penetrate the soil more efficiently.