Ants can be a persistent nuisance in outdoor spaces, but with the right strategies, you can make your yard less appealing to them, so they’ll leave and be less likely to return. 

Types of Ants

Different environments have different ant species. Understanding the specific ant species in your yard and what’s attracting them is the first step toward effective control measures. Different types of ants exhibit unique behaviors, nesting habits and food preferences, which influence the most suitable treatment strategies. Common yard ants include:

• Fire ants. Known for their painful stings and aggressive behavior, these ants are typically reddish-brown and create mounds in sunny areas. Fire ants are particularly problematic because their bite is painful, and they spread quickly.
• Carpenter ants. Often black or dark brown and larger than most ants, these ants can damage wooden structures. Carpenter ants are a concern for homeowners as they can weaken wood over time, leading to structural issues.
• Pavement ants. Typically found nesting in cracks or under stones, these ants are dark brown to black and create small mounds. Pavement ants are common in urban areas and can be difficult to eradicate due to their nesting habits.
• Garden ants. As their name suggests, these often harmless ants are common in gardens. Usually black or brown, they can disrupt soil around plants. While garden ants generally aren’t destructive, they can still be a nuisance by creating small mounds and trails.

Identifying the species helps determine the best removal strategy, as some ants may require targeted approaches, such as baiting or physical barriers.

What Attracts Ants to Your Yard?

Ants are drawn to yards for several reasons, including food sources, moisture availability and the type of shelter they like.

• Food sources. Leftover food, pet bowls or sugary substances, such as those found in hummingbird feeders, attract ants. Regularly cleaning up food waste and sealing pet food containers can help reduce ant activity. 
• Moisture. Standing water or damp soil provides hydration for ants. Fixing leaks and improving drainage can reduce moisture levels. 
• Shelter. Areas such as mulch beds, woodpiles or cracks in pavement offer nesting spots. Consider using ant-repellent mulch or sealing cracks in the pavement.

What Harm or Damage Can Ants Cause?

While some ants are beneficial for aerating soil, others can cause problems. Certain ants attract aphids that harm plants by sucking sap and spreading disease. This can lead to weakened plants that are more susceptible to other pests and diseases.

The stings of fire ants and other biting species can cause painful welts and even allergic reactions.

Carpenter ants can weaken wooden structures over time by excavating tunnels for nesting. They may nest in wood piles or inside stored non-wooden objects, such as covered deck chairs.

How to Get Rid of Ants

To get rid of ants outdoors, you can try several strategies.

Try Natural Remedies

First, use some natural remedies.

• Pour boiling water into ant mounds. This method kills many ants instantly but may harm surrounding vegetation. It’s best for isolated mounds and should be used cautiously to avoid damaging plants.
• Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around anthills and trails. Doing this dehydrates ants, effectively killing them without harming plants. DE is a generally safe, nontoxic option for pet owners and gardeners.
• Mix equal parts vinegar and water, and spray it on ant trails or mounds. This disrupts ants’ pheromone paths, making it difficult for them to navigate. Vinegar is a natural, environmentally friendly option.

Place DIY Ant Baits

Create baits using borax mixed with sugar or honey. The sweet substance attracts ants, while borax kills them when ingested. Place these baits near ant trails but out of reach of pets and children. 

Create Physical Barriers

Create a barrier using cinnamon or orange oil around areas you want to protect. Sprinkle cinnamon powder or apply orange oil to entry points to prevent ants from crossing.

Flood Nests

Use a garden hose to flood ant nests with water. This method is less harmful to plants than boiling water but may require repetition to fully eliminate the colony. 

Apply Professional Products

Ant bait granules or insecticides designed for outdoor use can eliminate entire colonies when applied correctly. Always follow product instructions to ensure safety and effectiveness. These products are often potent and should be used with caution around pets and children.

How to Prevent Ants From Coming Back

Prevention is key to maintaining an ant-free yard. 

• Remove attractants. Keep food waste sealed and away from the yard. Relocate compost bins and trash cans away from high-traffic areas.
• Maintain your lawn. Mow grass regularly, and avoid bare patches. Remove plant debris, such as fallen branches and leaves. 
• Seal entry points. Fill cracks in pavement or foundations where ants might nest.
• Conduct regular inspections. Regularly inspect your yard for signs of ants, such as mounds or trails, and address them promptly.
• Introduce beneficial insects. Beneficial insects, such as ladybugs or lacewings, prey on ants. These insects can help control ant populations naturally.
• Add ant-repellent plants. Planting ant-repellent herbs, such as mint or basil, around the perimeter of your yard can help deter ants. These plants release oils that ants don’t like.
• Apply natural mulch: Use natural mulch that repels ants, such as cedar chips, around plants. Cedar mulch is a safe and effective way to deter ants from nesting near plants.

By identifying the type of ants, understanding what attracts them and using natural or professional remedies, you can figure out how to get rid of ants outdoors and reclaim your yard as a safe and pleasant haven!

For ongoing pest control solutions tailored to your lawn’s needs, consider consulting with professionals who can provide personalized advice and treatments. Contact Lawn Doctor for expert pest control to maintain a healthy and pest-free yard. Our team can help you develop a comprehensive plan to eliminate ants and prevent future infestations.