When the warm weather comes out so do these little buggers. Ants can be one of the most frustrating pests. They are small and their numbers are large. Some bite and others just crawl all over you. This article is for the traditional, black, house ant. Here are a few possible solutions for this tiny problem. I have also included a few tips on keep them away. These are great homemade options for those who dislike using premixed pest control. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Boric Acid Solution - Combine a small amount of boric acid, sugar and hot water in a spray bottle and swirl mixing thoroughly. Boric Acid can be purchased at any discount retailer like Walmart under the name Borax. Make sure to keep this away from pets or children as it is hazardous. This is a good option for long term control.
2. Bleach Solution - Combine a small amount of bleach with hot water in a spray bottle and swirl mixing thoroughly. Make sure to keep this away from pets or children as it is hazardous. This is a good option for long term control. Using the name brands, like Clorox, does not add any additional killing power.
3. Ammonia - Spray Window cleaner liberally and watch them stop in their tracks, dead. This is a good option for short term control. It will have to be reapplied to be effective as the ants appear.
4. Oatmeal or Grits - Leave a few pieces of instant oatmeal or grits (some sort of water absorbing food) out where the ants are appearing. Get it as close to the nest as possible. The ant will take it back to the nest and eat it. Once eaten the food expands essentially popping the bug. Nice visual huh? Cruel but effective and non toxic. This option has to be applied frequently.
5. Now, if you don't want to kill the ants, but just want to keep them away from a particular area like a garden etc place a few drops of peppermint essential oil in a spray bottle and fill with water. Spray this generously around the area but try to avoid the plants themselves.
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