According to a survey,1 ants are the number one nuisance pest in the United States, invading homes and yards alike.
While these tiny creatures play a vital role in the ecosystem, they can quickly become a frustrating problem when they march into our outdoor spaces. Fortunately, there are several natural and effective ways to get rid of ants outside without resorting to harsh chemicals.
1. Sprinkle Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth, a fine powder made from fossilized algae, is a natural ant killer. Sprinkle it around ant hills and entry points to your home. The sharp edges of the powder cut through the ants’ exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die.
2. Use Boiling Water
For a quick and easy solution, pour boiling water directly onto ant hills. The heat will kill the ants and destroy their nest, forcing survivors to relocate. Repeat the process a few times to ensure complete elimination.
3. Harness the Power of Vinegar
Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and apply the solution to ant trails and entry points. The strong scent disrupts their pheromone trails, making it difficult for them to navigate and find food sources.
4. Sprinkle Cinnamon
Cinnamon is not only a delicious spice but also a natural ant repellent. Sprinkle ground cinnamon around your garden, patio, and other outdoor areas where ants are present. The strong smell will deter them from entering your space.
5. Plant Mint
Mint plants are known for their ability to repel ants and other insects.(ref) Plant mint around your garden or in pots near outdoor seating areas. As a bonus, you’ll have fresh mint leaves for culinary use and a pleasant aroma in your yard.
6. Create a Borax Bait
Mix equal parts borax and sugar with enough water to create a paste. Place small amounts of the mixture on shallow dishes near ant trails. The ants will carry the bait back to their colony, effectively poisoning the entire nest.
7. Use Lemon Juice
The citric acid in lemon juice is a natural ant deterrent. Squeeze fresh lemon juice directly onto ant hills and trails, or mix it with water to create a spray solution. Reapply as needed to maintain effectiveness.
8. Sprinkle Coffee Grounds
Used coffee grounds not only enrich your soil but also repel ants. Sprinkle them around your garden, focusing on areas where ants are most active. The strong scent and acidity of the coffee will keep ants at bay.
9. Employ Neem Oil
Neem oil, extracted from the neem tree, is a natural insecticide that disrupts the life cycle of ants. Mix a few drops of neem oil with water and spray the solution around your yard, paying special attention to ant trails and nests.
10. Scatter Bay Leaves
Bay leaves contain a compound called eugenol, which is effective in repelling ants. Place whole bay leaves near entry points and in areas where ants congregate. You can also crush the leaves to release more of the repellent aroma.
11. Use Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper’s spicy nature is off-putting to ants. Sprinkle cayenne pepper powder around your garden and outdoor spaces, focusing on ant trails and hills. The heat and strong smell will deter ants from entering the treated areas.
12. Apply Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oil is a potent ant repellent due to its strong scent. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle and apply the solution to ant trails, entry points, and around your outdoor living spaces.
13. Utilize Cornmeal
Ants are attracted to cornmeal, but they cannot digest it properly. Sprinkle cornmeal near ant hills and trails. The ants will carry the cornmeal back to their colony, ultimately leading to their demise as they are unable to process the food.
14. Maintain a Clean Yard
One of the best ways to prevent ant infestations is to maintain a clean and tidy yard. Regularly remove fallen fruit, clean up food debris after outdoor meals, and keep trash bins sealed. By eliminating food sources, you’ll make your outdoor space less attractive to ants.
Source:
1. Pestworld