Fire Ants

[bglidewell]

I am thinking about a whole yard (acre) fire ant preventer of some type soon. I thought it might be good to try and synchronize treatments so ants don't just migrate away or back to treated areas. Any other interested in this? Maybe a bulk purchase discount or professional application discount on a per block basis?

http://www.spcb.state.tx.us/consumer/twostep.pdf

[harvey1909]

I am pro-organics and I have read that grits will kill fire ants.  I have not tried that program myself, but I have used dried molasses.  It repels fire ants, but will not kill them.  I have used Spinosad and it will kill fire ants, but will not eliminate the mond.

I am still learning how to control insects the organic way.  The main thing to know is build up the biological activity in your soil and that will take care of many of your ant problems.  Go to (www.dirtdoctor.com) for more information on organic pest control.

By the way, I am still use pesticides in the house, but I am working towards total organic controls.

-Harvey

[bglidewell]

Harvey,

Organic is the way to go I agree, but like you, not sure there is a good answer for fire ants. I have several of Howard Garretts books on Texas plants. Possibly the best for Texas gardening books out there.

[dj]

I have used boiling water.  The water kills on contact.  It's organic but it takes quite a bit of time and effort carting boiling water to each mound. 

[harvey1909]

I have come to the conclusion that dry grits sprinkled on fire ant mounds does not kill fire ants.  I think that idea was put out to make pro-organics look foolish.  



Harvey


 

[harvey1909]

I have found that Amdro is very effective at killing fire ants and their queen if you want to go the chemical route.  For a non chemical solution I also like products with Spinosad as the acitve ingredient.  Ferti*lome makes a granular version called 'Come and Get It' and a liquid concentrate version that is label for use to kill Borers, Bagworms and Tent Caterpillars. It will kill alot of fire ants within a few days, just follow the instructions.