Ants are among the most common pests of the home. Their nests are found in lawns, in the walls of homes and in any other location that gives them protection.

Mounds of soil created by ants in the lawn are unsightly as well as being a nuisance. If you allow the ants to continue building mounds on your lawn, eventually the grass may be killed in these areas. For ant control in such situations, use diazinon (Spectracide). If you use 25% diazinon liquid, use 8 fluid ounces of chemical in three gallons of water. Apply this mixture liberally over the ant hills. You may have to repeat the treatment if you see any activity several days after your first application.

Diazinon granules, applied according to label directions, can also be used for outdoor ant control. Diazinon can be used to treat the exterior foundation of your home and the surrounding soil as a means of helping to prevent ants and other household insects from entering your home.  Other insecticides labeled for ants such as Tempo can also be used. The active ingredient in Tempo is available in Bayer Advanced Garden Multi-Insect Killer.  It is available in either the liquid or granular form. When using insecticide, mix and apply according to label directions.

For ant control in the home, you can use commercial ant baits such as Terro. Place the bait close to the areas in your home where the ants are the most active. Don't allow ant baits to come indirect contact with food or eating utensils. Also don't allow your children or pets access to these baits.

This page was last updated April 2003

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