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How to Get Rid of Ghost Ants


by DoItYourself Staff

Tiny as it is, the ant can pose quite a burden for many homeowners. These tiny insects often appear in multitudes and an invasion can cause you considerable frustration. Within the house, they frequently appear in the kitchen where sweet or greasy items are placed. They also appear in places where moisture is constantly available like the bathroom and also around the kitchen sink. Outside, you are bound to come across them on the sidewalk, in the soil, on trees, underneath rocks and logs. Insecticides are often used to fight off ants but their efficacy is low. This is because the queen remains safely secured and will continue to be fed and reproduce millions of additional ants. Below is a guide to help you eliminate the ghost ant, one of the most common and vexing of the ant species.

Baits

Ghostbusters frequently employ bait to trap the ants. A top-rated bait is one that succeeds in getting at the queen. It is best to use a slow-acting bait as this is sure to get the queen. An ideal bait is one that contains sugars, some other insects and grease. Place the bait in strategic positions where you know the ants will appear. The foraging ants will not only eat their fill but also carry some of the bait to the queen and rest of the colony.

Soapy Water

Mix some detergent with water and spray at points where the ants seem to emerge from. This will keep the ants at bay. Soapy water has a toxic effect on the ants.

Brine

Mix some salt with warm water and place in a spray bottle. Spray strategic locations such as corners, crevices and kitchen cabinets. The ants are unable to survive when drenched in the brne and will quickly die. It is a good idea to leave the spray for an extended period, sometimes overnight. This will yield better results in keeping the ants away.

Cucumber

Ants have an aversion to cucumber, especially bitter cucumber. They do not like the taste of cucumber. Slice some cucumber thinly and place liberally in the areas where ants visit. The ants will disappear. Leave the cucumber where placed for a day or two. Once it dries you can collect and discard. Repeat the procedure when you next sight the ants.

White Vinegar

Mix some white vinegar with water in a 2:1 ratio. Place in a spray bottle and apply in the areas where you notice the ants. It will kill the ants within minutes.

Turmeric Powder

It is widely used as a home remedy to get rid of the ant. For best results, apply the powedr where the ants have their nests or wherever you notice them emerging from. Trail the ants to their holes and apply the powder there. It will effectively eliminate a good proportion of the colony.

Mint

Get some dried mint leaves and crush into a powder. Apply in areas where you normally see the ants. It quickly kills the ants. As long as you leave it on site, the ants will keep away.

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