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Few things are more startling than walking in on an army of ants marching in a writhing black swath across the kitchen cabinets.
Having been startled recently by just such an invasion, winning the war against this inside interloper is an issue close to my heart.
After a few hits and misses, here are the simple, less-toxic solutions that actually worked to eradicate them.
A mix of 3 tablespoons peppermint soap and 16 ounces of water sprayed from a squirt bottle directly on the little marchers stops most of the army in its tracks. Then wipe up with a paper towel and toss.
Boric-acid baits work well and have the added benefit of using a minimum of insecticide, as does eliminating the ringleader: the scout. That's the one leading the pack to our food and water.
Powder the wall cracks and baseboards with an insecticidal dust such as diatomaceous earth.
Invasion Prevention Tips:
- Keep your home clean and dry. Insects need both food and water to live inside.
- Keep garbage cans inside your home clean on the outside and seal tightly to prevent insect infiltration.
- Seal wall cracks with caulk; also take time to weather-strip doors and windows.
- Create a barrier around pet food dishes so the food doesn't become an insect draw. Fill a shallow, wide container half full of soapy water, then place the cat food dishes inside.
- Outside, a bucket of boiling water with soap sent spiraling down an insect hole is actually my favorite remedy.
