Small Black Ants

by Fred A. Howe
(Garden Valley, Idaho)

Question-I live in the mountains of central Idaho and we have had a problem with small black ants that we have tried everything we could find. We have tried regular ant poison as well as home remedies and the problem seems to be getting worse. When you wipe these ant up with a paper towel they have a horrible smell. Any suggestions?

Answer-First, find where the ants are coming into your house. There may be areas that need to be caulked, which will make it more difficult for them to come in.
After you have determined the entry area, and caulked, if necessary, then try rubbing a layer of petroleum jelly along the entry areas. Ants will not cross petroleum jelly.

Ants also hate the smell of vapor rub cream. It could be used in place of petroleum jelly. Baby powder is also another deterent for ants.

Ground Cinnamon is one spice that ants absolutely hate. Get a large container and sprinkle all over the outside of your house to prevent them from entering your home.

Vinegar is one of my favorite remedies for several things. But, for ants, they won't go near ANYTHING that has vinegar on it. So, clean your windowsills, countertops, commodes, sinks and anything else with vinegar! You will get a double blessing...ants will stay away while the vinegar will help sanitize the surface.