(Question)
In Aurora…a swarm of bugs on foundation and bricks…tiny red ants along with equal number of black slightly larger bugs with wings (but they don’t fly off) very warm day.
What are they and how do I deal with them….I sprayed them and most died. 2nd time in approx. month….same place
(Answer)
Toronto Master Gardeners does not recommend home remedies for dealing with pests. Here are a few good articles about ants and how to get rid of them:
- The University of California Integrated Pest Management Program’s How to Manage Pests – Pests of Homes, Structures, People, and Pets – Antshighlight that ants are actually good for the garden. They recommend that you avoid planting certain plants next to your house – i.e., those that attract honeydew-producing insects (e.g., aphids, mealybugs, soft scales, whiteflies) and suggest that you keep the space around your house’s foundation free of plants, grass, mulch and other debris, to eliminate nesting sites for the ants. Inside the home, getting rid of the ant’s scent trail by using soapy water, may do the trick.
- Colorado State University Extension’s Ants in the home advises that ants come into homes to seek food and water – so if you make sure that your food is stored properly and that there are no water leaks, fewer ants will be interested in coming inside. It also describes several different types of ants that may be found in homes.
- The University of Minnesota Extension’s Ants in springand What to do about household ants discuss several different ant species and highlight the importance of determining the species of ant that’s entering the home.
Good luck !