How Hard is it to Get Rid of Fire Ants?
Getting rid of fire ants can be a tricky task. It’s important to know what they look like, how they’re different from other ants, and the best methods for eliminating them. Then you can protect yourself and your family from this pest.
One of the best ways to get rid of fire ants is by using baits. These pesticides can eliminate 80% to 90% of a colony. They’re slow-acting, but they work. You can use this method once or twice a year to keep them at bay.
Another effective method is to use hot soapy water. This solution decomposes the wax coatings that fire ants leave behind. You can also use cooking oil to suffocate the ants.
If you don’t want to deal with the mess of boiling water, you can treat the mound with a granular insecticide. You should spread the insecticide about three feet out in all directions.
Another method is to use a liquid insecticide. You should follow the instructions on the product label. During the first 24 hours after you apply the insecticide, it’s important to keep children and pets away from the treated area.
A third method is to use a bait. Bait pesticides can kill up to 90% of a colony. You’ll have to wait about a month or two for the bait to work. It’s important to remember to reapply the bait every so often to keep the ants coming back.
The best time to apply bait is in the evening. It’s also important to spray around entry points and around the foundation.