Ants in Your Plants…and Home

FAIRFAX, Va. (July 28, 2014) – Warm weather and rain create the perfect environment for ants to thrive. Although they are an important part of any ecosystem, they can cause major damage and unsanitary conditions if they gain access to a home.

Carpenter ants are one of the largest species of ants and are known for their destructive nesting habits. These ants will chew tunnels into wood siding to build a nest. Carpenter ant nests are most commonly found in moisture-damaged wood.

Fire ants are another troublesome species but more for the health threats they pose than for destructive behavior. People who have sensitivities to insect bites or stings may have an allergic reaction if bitten by fire ants. Shoes should always be worn when walking outside to avoid stepping directly on fire ant mounds.