I live in Minnesota and last year I noticed patches of my lawn were thinning and yellowing and mounding slightly upward.
Then I finally noticed that it was a very large ant complex, not the little mound of dirt that the small brown ants leave, but a huge metropolis of larger black ants.

Now this year they have spread and have made the lawn look terrible.

Does anyone know what I can do about this?

I am somewhat of a environmentalist and I have never used insecticides or weed killers, but I'm willing to make an exception in this case.

Thanks for reading.

Nancy

 

Hello Nancy

I'm going to move you over to the Pest Control forum.

Pretty sure you'll get an answer there (here, now )

Howie

 

Thanks, Howiek.

Nancy, Try Diazinon granules. The product is easy to use and has a good residual life. It will take care of the ants and other insects that are damaging your lawn. Please read the label directions for more info. Also most granules require that you water them in.

 

Thank you Jerome.
I will check on that right away.

I love that little animated picture you have with your name.

 

 

it's a nerve toxin similar to chloropyrifos, but breaks down much quicker in the soil, usually in a few days.

 

would this product be safe to use with pets in the yard?

 

Diazinon can be hazardous to pets and children. Always read and follow product label directions and take all precautions. Not all chemicals are available in all areas. Call your local Dept. of Agriculture Extension Agent to learn what is recommended and available in your area.

 

I've used diazinon before and it's great for bugs! I never had a problem with ants, crickets, spiders, etc..

Although they've taken it off of the shelves and I can't find it here anymore..

 

Contact your local Dept. of Agriculture Extension Agent to find out what chemicals are available in your area for your particular insecticide/pesticide control problems. Not all chemicals are available in all areas.