Ants in Turf

Ants are sometimes found in turf between April and October. Although ants will not directly attack the turf, they do produce mounds which create an uneven surface and can cause the mower to scalp the sward. Ants are colony insects and as such build a large maze of tunnels in the soil and push up the soil to cause the mounds, sometimes causing damage to the roots at the same time.

A control treatment for ants has often been to pour as kettle full of boiling water on the nets, however, this may be possible on your patio, it must not be done on turf as it will scorch the turf.

Ant nests can be left in the lawn if they are not causing any issues. Where ants are becoming a problem, particularly if they start to form an ant hill, find the entrance to the nest by watching the movements of the ants, they will use one main entrance to the colony. Using a knife, edging iron or spade, cut a cross through the centre of the entrance. Gently peel back the turf to expose the entrance. Using an approved Permethrin product, such as Nippon Ant Powder, puff some in and around the entrance hole. Then gently put the turf back and tread it down. Ants will travel in and out of the nest taking the permethrin with them on their legs and transport it all around the rest of the colony. Permethrin is a systemic insecticide and affects the ant’s neurological system through both bodily contact and ingestion.

If you would like any advice or help, ask one of Collier Turf Care’s BASIS & FACTS Qualified Advisors.

Chris Humphrey M.I. Soil Sci. MBPR FQA

Technical Manager

For advice, contact your Collier Turf Care representative or call 01328 700600