Fire ants invade compost piles and mulched flower beds seeking food, warmth, and moisture. Nest sites may be difficult to locate.
When the exact location of a fire ant colony is unknown, treat the area of greatest ant activity with a fast-acting fire ant bait. If you want a pesticide-free compost pile, scatter fire ant bait around the base of the compost. Managing fire ants in surrounding areas can reduce the possibility of fire ant infestation in compost piles.
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Find more information about fire ants in eXtension's Imported Fire Ant Resource Area.
