What is the most effective way to manage fire ants?

The most effective way to manage fire ants is to combine bait with mound treatments. This approach leverages the strengths of both methods. Baits are designed to be taken back to the colony, where they can effectively eliminate the queen and other worker ants, disrupting the colony's reproductive cycle and food supply. On the other hand, mound treatments, which may include insecticides specifically formulated for direct contact, provide immediate control of visible ants and help manage high-density colonies.

This dual strategy enhances overall effectiveness, as it allows for long-term reduction in ant populations while also addressing immediate infestations. By using bait, particularly those that target the ants' foraging behavior, and supplementing with mound treatments for quick action, you increase the likelihood of thoroughly managing and reducing fire ant populations. Other methods, such as depending solely on chemical sprays or granular applications, do not strategically tackle the complexities of fire ant colonies, often leading to incomplete control.