Ant colony at base of tree

[simpsongal]

We have a robust ant colony at the base of one of our apple trees.  The dirt is mounded at the base b/c we planted the root ball 1/3 above ground.  Should we take steps to kill the ants?  Could they hurt the tree or are they helpful for some reason?  Dr. Google didn't provide a very reliable answer.

They're just regular ol' black ants.

I have another 'ID this tree' request coming just need to post pics.

[mouse]

I only take care of ants that make it indoors. (And minimally at that, luckily we don't live in a high infestation area.)

[treedimensional]

Most ants don't eat plants. You're safe.
The above ground roots are probably densely tangled, and they find it most agreeable habitat. Put mulch against the outer periphery of the root ball, and extend it out and away from the tree for a couple of feet. Keep both the mulch ad the root ball moist and don't let any grass or weeds encroach on the mulch ring or the root ball.

[simpsongal]

Thanks TD! That's what I was hoping to hear. I mulched a few months ago, but the mulch at the base has slid off. I need to replace it.

I should test the soil next year too. There's a pine tree that drops lots of needles in the area. It's nice because they act like a natural mulch and weed retardent. The roses love the acidic soil but I need to make sure it doesn't go too far for my fruit trees.

[treedimensional]

Pine needles are really good, and really long lasting mulch. The break down VERY slowly because of all the waxes and resins in pine. Azaleas and rhodos love growing under pine trees.

[simpsongal]

Yup, we have a lot of acid-loving plants under another pine in our yard. The previous owners planted camelias, azaleas, rhodos, roses, etc. These plants have been neglected for a while though. I was able to de-weed around one camelia, after applying a natural acidifying fertilizer and mulch, it's thriving!

I was a little dense with my garden plan last year. I put the blueberries on the far-side of the garden. I'm transplanting them closer to the pine tree.