Ants are a particular nuisance in Davis. They do not cause harm to plants but enter homes and are sometimes difficult to remove. Ants can appear at any time of year but are most active in the summer and after the first rains in the fall.

Prevention/Management

• Caulk cracks and block as many potential home entrances as possible.
• Prevent nest building near the home; remove any leafy debris or wood piles near the house.
• Seal all food and keep counters wiped down.

Controls

• More toxic: Dursban® (chlorpyrifos) and others, diazinon.
• Less toxic:

- pyrethroids

- remove food sources and mop up with soapy water or detergent

- place sticky traps at base of plants and trees

- place diatomaceous earth or silica-gel dusts outdoors

- use baited discs or boric acid/sugar (1:1) indoors