Ants in the US don't damage plants.

When ants are in trees, usually a reason. Often aphids and/or scale insects, then must deal with those in order to get rid of the ants.

What are they doing to/in your flowers? Again, likely insects are there. Aphids would be my guess.eed to find out what insects are in the trees.

They're everywhere and as long as they don't eat anything I want to eat, don't try to come inside, and don't bite, I can't see a problem with them. They clean up all the little dead thingies that would otherwise litter the dirt. They feed the lizards that feed the mockingbirds that drive off the neighborhood cats. I see no strong upside but no downside either.

Look at this sunflower head. When blown up to full original resolution, I counted over a hundred of the things and wouldn't have noticed if a camera wasn't involved. There are twelve in the little yellow oval alone. It's their land too and we're both smart enough to not fight over it.

Knock on wood.

great thanks for the help!

I had this same question! Thank you for posting and for answers.