Ants can be a real outdoor nuisance when they prevent you, your children, or your pets from enjoying time outside in the yard.
What ants cause a problem outdoors in Canada?
Four ant species commonly cause problems outside. Pavement ants and odorous house ants can show up by the thousands, swarming your backyard barbeque. Carpenter ants damage wooden play equipment, decks, landscape timbers, garages and sheds. And European fire ants, which are expanding their range across Canada, are aggressive stingers (and sting repeatedly) if you venture too close to their outdoor nests, which are often found in lawns and gardens.
How do I kill ants outside?
Follow these four steps to get rid of ants outdoors:
- Identify the ant – By knowing the species of ant, its biology and how it behaves, you can determine the most-effective treatment approach and choose the most-effective DIY or do-it-yourself ant killers to control it. Compare your ant to the 7 common ant pests in Canada that cause problems for homes and businesses.
- Inspect the yard – Where are you finding the ants outdoors, and what is attracting them? If possible, follow ant trails to the nest or nests. By conducting a thorough inspection, you will know where to perform treatment. Learn where to find ants outdoors and get inspection tips.
- Use the best outdoor ant killer - What kills ants outside? Depending on the ant species and where ant activity is located, the best pest control products are:
- Ant stations - Ant stations (also known as ant traps) are filled with an insecticide bait and secured in the ground. Foraging ants carry the bait back to the colony and share it, killing the queen and the colony. Learn about ant stations and how to use them.
- DE ant powder or DE ant dust, also known as Diatomaceous Earth – After walking through this natural desiccant, ants lose body moisture and die from drying out. Learn about DE and how to use it.
- Ant repellents – These foams, aerosols and sprays kill ants on contact and create a defensive barrier the ants won’t cross. Natural ant repellent spray is available.
Also read:
5 Steps to Get Rid of Ants for Good
The Best DIY Ant Killers in Canada
