Due to the renewed interest in an older article on Eradicating Leaf Cutter Ants, we received a request for eradicating Fire Ants. In Texas, where the author lived before moving to Mexico some thirty years ago, fire ants were a big concern. We would use what became known as the Texas Two-Step Method to eradicate fire ants. Of course, we would have access to the hive, which is important.
The method requires a broadcasting of slow-acting bait over the yard in spring/fall so ants carry it to the queen; then, drench visible mounds with insecticide or hot soapy water for quicker results, targeting the colony’s mound when ants are active (early morning/evening) for maximum effectiveness, ensuring the re-application when dry for best results.
Step 1: Bait Application (Colony-Wide)
How it Works: Worker ants collect bait (corn grits with soybean oil & pesticide) and share it with the queen, sterilizing or killing her, which stops the colony.
When to Apply: Early spring and fall, when ants are actively foraging, but ensure dry ground and no rain for 24-48 hours.
How to Apply: Use a hand spreader to broadcast bait (like Amdro, Extinguish Plus) over your entire yard.
Key: Be patient; this can take weeks to months for full control.
Step 2: Mound Treatment (Targeted)
When to Treat: Early morning or late evening when ants are at the surface.
Method 1: Insecticide Drench: Mix liquid insecticide (e.g., permethrin, bifenthrin-based) with water and drench the mound and 10-12 inches around it.
Method 2: Hot Soapy Water: Pour about 3 gallons of very hot, soapy water directly into the mound (carefully to avoid burns and plants).
Method 3: Bait Spot Treatment: Sprinkle a small amount of bait directly on or around active mounds.
Tips for Success
Timing: Apply baits when the ground is dry and temperatures are warm but not scorching, and treat mounds when ants are active.
Patience with Baits: Baits are slow but effective for long-term control.
Safety: Follow label instructions for all chemical products and wear protective gear.
Avoid Ineffective Home Remedies: Grits, orange peels, or just shoveling mounds aren’t effective and may just spread ants.
Again, you can find gardening chemicals and an extensive amount of knowledge at Iwamoto Agroservicio and Garden located at:
Iwamoto Agroservicio and Garden
Address: Av. Plan de Ayala 2022, Cuauhnahuac, 62430
Phone: 777 315 5250
Open 9am to 5pm Monday through Saturday, Closed Sunday
