If you have an ant problem in your garden, you’re not alone. Ants can be a real pain for gardeners and can be difficult to get rid of, but there are a few things you can try at home without the help of a professional to reduce the severity of the problem. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to remove ants from your garden for good! We’ll discuss the different methods that you can use, as well as some helpful tips and tricks. So read on to learn more about how to eliminate these pests once and for all by yourself before you call up Sprague Pest!
5 Types of Ants to Know About
Before determining the best course of action to get keep ants away from your garden and yard, it is important to identify the type of ant that is causing the problem. There are several different species of ants that can invade gardens, but the most common ones include:
1. Carpenter Ants
These ants are one of the most difficult to control, as they build their nests in wood. They are also attracted to sweet foods, so sugar and honey are a big no-no if you’re trying to keep them away. Carpenter ants are also known to bite, so it’s best to be cautious if you come into contact with them.
2. Fire Ants
As their name suggests, fire ants are known for their painful bites. They are also attracted to sweet foods and build their nests in the ground. Fire ants can be difficult to control, but there are a few methods that may work. Fire ants can easily take over a garden, so it’s important to act quickly if you see them.
3. Harvester Ants
These ants primarily feed on seeds and build their nests in the ground which can be harmful to your crops. They are not known to bite or sting, but they can be a nuisance if they invade your garden. Harvester ants can be controlled with baits and traps, but it’s best to call a pest control expert if you’re having trouble getting rid of them.
4. Pharaoh Ants
These ants tend to stick around sweet foods and build their nests in the ground. Pharaoh ants can be controlled with baits and traps, but they can also be difficult to get rid of. The easiest way to tell if you have pharaoh ants is by their small size and light-colored bodies. You will also notice that they primarily eat sweet foods such as fruits that you may be growing.
5. Pavement Ants
These ants are attracted to sweet foods and build their nests in cracks in the pavement. Pavement ants are some of the most common and tend to have less of an effect on your garden, despite being a nuisance. Pavement ants can be controlled with baits and traps, but they may also respond to more natural methods such as diatomaceous earth which we will cover below.
5 Ways to Remove Ants
Depending on the type of ant that is causing the problem, there are a few different methods that you can use to get rid of them. For most garden ants, baits and traps are the best method of control. You can also try more natural methods such as diatomaceous earth or Borax. Here are a few different ways that you can remove ants from your garden:
1. Baits and Traps
Baits and traps are a great way to get rid of ants without using pesticides. You can buy baits and traps at your local hardware store or online. There are a variety of different baits and traps that you can choose from, so be sure to read the labels carefully to find one that is effective against the type of ant you’re dealing with. Once you’ve baited and set the traps, be sure to check them regularly and empty them when necessary.
2. Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance that can be used to kill ants and other pests. It works by absorbing the oils and waxes that ants need to survive. Diatomaceous earth can be found at your local hardware store or online. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully when using it, as it can be harmful to humans if inhaled.
3. Borax
Similar to diatomaceous earth, Borax is a natural substance that can be used to kill ants. It works by causing dehydration in the ant, which eventually leads to death. In addition to being effective, it is typically much easier to find Borax than diatomaceous earth. You can find it at your local hardware store or online. To use this method, simply mix Borax with sugar and water to create a paste. Then, apply the paste to areas where ants are seen and wait for them to take the bait back to their nest.
4. Natural Predators
Another way to get rid of ants is by using their natural predators. Ladybugs, green lacewings, and parasitic wasps are all effective at controlling ant populations. You can purchase these predators online or at your local nursery. Be sure to release them in the early evening so they have time to find a place to hide before the sun comes up. In just a bit of time, you will be able to see a significant reduction in the number of ants in your garden.
5. Pesticides
If you’re dealing with an ant infestation that is difficult to control, you may need to resort to using pesticides. Pesticides should be used as a last resort, as they can be harmful to humans, animals, and the environment. When using pesticides, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and only apply them to areas where ants are seen. In addition, be sure to keep children and pets away from the area until the pesticide has dried.
Final Thoughts
Having covered the many types of ants that exist and a few viable methods for getting rid of them, you should now have a much better understanding of how to keep your garden ant-free. Make sure you try a few different methods until you find one that works best for you. With a little bit of patience and perseverance, you will be able to enjoy your garden ant-free in no time!