Minimizing Fire Ants in the Lawn and Landscape (5-9-11)

Fire ant mounds have become quite visible in many lawns since the recent storms and warmer weather. Not only are the mounds unsightl, but the sting from fire ants can be extremely painful and for some people even life threatening. Therefore, controlling fire ants should be as much a part of your lawn management activities as mowing, watering, and fertilizing. There are several methods of controlling fire ants, but baits are probably the most convenient and easiest products for homeowners to apply.

Adhering to a few application tips will ensure the most effective use of bait.

• Don’t apply too much. The rate for most bait is only one to two pounds per acre.
• Use fresh bait. Ants are not attracted to old bait that has gone rancid.
• Since fire ants forage for their food, apply bait by broadcasting it over the entire lawn and not just on top of mounds.
• Avoid applying bait just before rainfall and do not irrigate for at least two days after applying.
• Be patient as bait is slow-acting.
• Apply fire ant bait preventively. Don’t wait till you see large mounds. By the time mounds are visible several smaller unseen colonies are being established.
• Apply bait up to three times per year, spring, summer, and fall for season long control.
• Eliminate mounds the bait misses with additional individual mound treatments.

Several excellent publications on fire ant control are available at your local Extension office or they can be downloaded from this website. Use the search box Once at the top of any page and simply type "fire ants" in the search box.

Published May 9, 2011

Dr. Wayne Wells is an Extension Professor and Turfgrass Specialist. His mailing address is Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Mail Stop 9555, Mississippi State, MS 39762. wwells@ext.msstate.edu