Thanks for stopping by! I’ve had weeds and ants in my garden for years, so I know how annoying it is when they take over your outdoor space. Some people wonder if killing ants with weed killer is the same as killing weeds. But first, let me explain what I’ve learned from reading and living.
The Short Answer
Herbicides like Roundup are made to kill plants, not bugs. But some weed killer brands make products that are made to kill both weeds and bugs.
What Actually Happens When Ants Meet Weed Killer?
In my experience with various weed killers, here’s what really happens:
- Behavioral Changes: Research from Webster University showed that when exposed to Roundup, ants stop digging – but they don’t die.
- No Direct Kill Effect: The main ingredient in most weed killers (glyphosate) doesn’t harm ants directly.
- Temporary Impact: Ants might avoid treated areas temporarily but will usually return once the chemical dries.
What Actually Works Against Ants?
I’ve tried many ways to get rid of ants, and these are the best ones I’ve found.
Chemical Solutions
- Roundup for Lawns Bug Destroyer: This specific product is designed to kill ants (unlike regular Roundup)
- Ant-specific baits: These are way more effective than weed killers
- Fire ant killers: Special formulations for aggressive species
Natural Solutions That Really Work
- Borax + Sugar Mix
- Mix equal parts borax and sugar
- Add water to create a paste
- Place near ant trails
- Vinegar Solution
- 1 part white vinegar
- 1 part water
- Few drops of dish soap
- Diatomaceous Earth
- Sprinkle around ant hills
- Creates a natural barrier
- Boiling Water Treatment
- Pour directly into ant hills
- Add salt for extra effectiveness
- Warning: This can harm nearby plants!
My Personal Tips for Better Results
Here’s what I’ve learned from my gardening experience:
- Target the Colony: Don’t just spray visible ants – find and treat the nest
- Timing Matters: Apply treatments early morning or late evening when ants are most active
- Consistency is Key: You might need multiple applications
- Watch the Weather: Don’t apply treatments before rain
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made these mistakes so you don’t have to:
- ❌ Using regular weed killer expecting it to kill ants
- ❌ Applying treatments randomly without finding the nest
- ❌ Using too much product (more isn’t always better!)
- ❌ Not considering pet and child safety
Safe and Effective Alternative Methods
If you’re looking for eco-friendly options, try these:
-
Companion Planting
- Plant mint
- Lavender
- Citronella grass
- Marigolds
-
Natural Repellents
- Coffee grounds
- Citrus peels
- Cucumber slices
- Essential oils (peppermint, tea tree)
The Bottom Line
Even though weed killer won’t get rid of the ants, there are many other good options. Instead of hoping that your herbicide will do double duty, I’d start with ant control products or natural solutions.
Remember, the key is persistence and using the right tool for the job. Just like you wouldn’t use a hammer to cut wood, don’t expect weed killer to solve your ant problems!
Got any questions about dealing with ants in your garden? Drop them in the comments below – I’d love to share more tips from my experience!
It Protects Against Fire Ants
Fire ant fights are not what your lawn is for; it’s for carefree relaxation, summer barbecues, and pick-up games with the kids. Yet it can feel like a full time job to deal with their nests, which seem to pop up out of nowhere. Enter Scotts® Turf Builder® Southern Triple Action: When applied as directed, it immediately goes to work, killing fire ants and preventing new mounds from forming for up to 6 months.
Here’s how Scotts® Turf Builder® Southern Triple Action works:
When used as directed, Scotts® Turf Builder® Southern Triple Action kills weeds that are actively growing. It even kills some of the worst weeds around:
Can Soap and Water Safely ELIMINATE Ants in the Grass
FAQ
What is the best thing to kill ants with?
Top 7 Household Products to Kill AntsVinegar and Water. Vinegar mixed with water can repel and kill ants. Lemon Juice and Water. If you don’t have vinegar, you can use lemon juice instead. Citrus Blend. Image via Flickr by AtomicP. Boiling Water. Diatomaceous Earth. Dish Soap. Boric Acid.
Does Dawn dish soap really kill ants?
How to Get Rid of Ants How to Treat Ant Hills Does Dawn dish soap kill pests? Yes it does! You may have noticed that Dawn is used in many homemade pest sprays. It not only works at killing and repelling additional pests, but it is gentle on your lawn as well.
Will spraying raid keep ants away?
RAID! is well known for its ability to kill on sight but unfortunately, this may end up worsening an ant infestation instead of improving it. You may be wondering why pest control professionals will always say not to use RAID! to get rid of ants.
How do I permanently get rid of ants in my yard?
You can get rid of ants in your yard using a number of home remedies, including boiling water, diatomaceous earth, borax, vinegar, or dish soap. Prevent ants in your yard using such DIY methods or by eliminating water and food sources.
Does weed killer kill ants?
Most weed killers do not kill insects like ants or spiders, though some are effective in this regard. Specialized weed killers for insects can be purchased in stores. The answer to whether weed killer kills ants is yes, but caution is advised when using products like Roundup.
Does fire ant fertilizer kill weeds?
Its unique 3-in-1 formula of weed killer, fire ant killer, and lawn fertilizer will work to kill weeds, stop the formation of new fire ant mounds, and feed the lawn, all at the same time. To use it, just follow the directions on the label and use a spreader, which you can get at any garden center or home improvement store.
Does Roundup kill ants?
While the primary active ingredient in traditional Roundup—glyphosate—effectively kills weeds, it does not specifically target ants, as it functions as a herbicide rather than an insecticide. However, Roundup for Lawns Bug Destroyer is effective in controlling ant populations, unlike standard Roundup.
Does mound killer kill ants?
Water the mound killer into the ground, as directed on the product label. This simple to use product will kill ants, including the queen, quickly. You can eliminate even the most stubborn ant mound this way. Works by killing the queen and the entire active colony. You do not need to water this product into your lawn.
Does a granular ant killer kill ants?
One of the benefits of using a granular ant killer is it won’t cause harm to your grass and lawn. But pets may be drawn to the granules in the same way that bats are, so keep them off your lawn until you get rid of the ants. Perfect for killing fire ants. Simply sprinkle around each individual mound in your yard.
Does glyphosate kill ants?
While glyphosate is not designed to kill insects like ants or spiders directly, its effects can indirectly result in insect fatalities due to the death of weeds they rely on or compete with. Despite being marketed as safe for wildlife, glyphosate affects certain bacteria essential for pollinators.