Tools and Supplies to use borax to kill antlions | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Borax powder | |||
2 | Pest control duster | |||
3 | Protective gloves | |||
4 | Safety goggles | |||
5 | Respirator mask | |||
6 | Sprayer bottle | |||
7 | Bucket | |||
8 | Spoon or measuring cup | |||
9 | Garden hose | |||
10 | Antlion traps (optional) |
Antlions are pesky insects that can cause damage to your garden or lawn. They build funnel-shaped traps in the soil to catch their prey, and if left unchecked, they can create unsightly holes and damage your plants. Borax is an effective and natural way to get rid of antlions. Here are the steps to use borax to kill antlions:
Step 1: Identify the antlion traps
Before you can use borax to kill antlions, you need to identify their traps. Look for small, cone-shaped holes in the soil, which are usually about 1 inch in diameter. These holes are the entrance to the antlion's trap.
Step 2: Mix borax with sugar
Mix borax with sugar in a 1:3 ratio. Borax is toxic to ants and other insects, while sugar will attract them to the bait. Mix the borax and sugar well, making sure that they are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Sprinkle the bait around the antlion traps
Sprinkle the borax and sugar mixture around the antlion traps. Be sure to cover the entire area around the trap, as the ants and other insects will need to walk through the bait to get to the trap.
Step 4: Wait for the ants to take the bait
It may take a few days for the ants and other insects to find the bait and start taking it back to their colony. Be patient and wait for them to take the bait.
Step 5: Antlions will starve
Once the ants and other insects have taken the bait, they will bring it back to their colony. The borax in the bait will poison the ants and other insects, and they will eventually die. Without their food source, the antlions will starve and die as well.
Step 6: Repeat the process as needed
Depending on the severity of the infestation, you may need to repeat the process several times to completely get rid of the antlions. Be sure to monitor the area and reapply the bait as needed until the antlions are gone.
In conclusion, using borax to kill antlions is an effective and natural way to get rid of these pesky insects. By following these simple steps, you can eliminate antlions from your garden or lawn and prevent further damage to your plants.