By Kate Torpie, Garden Guides Contributor
About Fire Ants
There are two types of fire ants: imported and domestic. While both
are aggressive, the imported ants are more so by far. They will
attack insects, plants, small animals and even humans. Both form
huge colonies and can cause damage not only to gardens but to homes
and electrical lines. Their bites are painful enough, but some
people are also allergic. There is no benefit to having fire ants
around. And you do NOT want them getting into your home.
Prevention and Control
Fire ants are notorious foragers. To help prevent their making your
home their neighborhood, make sure you tie garbage bags securely
and keep lids on them. Drain any moist areas near your home, as
ants do need water. Caulk up any cracks in your home's foundation
or siding. Sprinkle cayenne pepper in ant trails and around the
outside of your home. And, odd as it sounds, clean up your kitchen
after cooking; grease and sweet smells can attract fire ants. To
keep them out of your garden, you can try ridding your garden of
aphids and whiteflies. Like many other ants, fire ants love to
drink the sweet sap these guys secrete.
Damage
In addition to munching on your plants, it is dangerous to have
fire ants near your home; children and pets are particularly at
risk. No one is safe. If a fire ant's nest is disturbed, they will
become aggressive and their bites are painful. Ugly mounds up to 2
feet will soon cover your property if the situation is not
controlled.
Predators
In North America, long-nosed armadillos will feed on fire ants,but
not for long. Like most predators, even armadillos are turned off
by the viscous stings. Currently, research is being done into fungi
and other microorganisms as a method of bio-control. Luring
predators of fire ants is simply not a great option for eradicating
the population.
Natural Insecticides
Citrus peelings and water mixed and poured into the hill; orange
guard, organic natural fire ant killer.
Other Methods of Control
* Buy granular ant bait (there are organic varieties available) and
ant traps.
* Drown the colony with the goal of killing the queen. Please note
this could take several gallons and can be dangerous: again, fire
ants will attack if their nests are disturbed.
* Call a professional to be at your safest.
