Ants eating concrete steps - Ask Extension
I have tiny ants eating nearly all the corners of my concrete steps. The only difference from last year is that I had the steps painted and stained in...
Knowledgebase
Ants eating concrete steps #334364
Asked June 20, 2016, 12:12 PM EDT
I have tiny ants eating nearly all the corners of my concrete steps. The only difference from last year is that I had the steps painted and stained in the fall. What are they and how can I get rid of them? I hope to avoid poison because I have a dog. Thank you.
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
The ants are likely there because of the sandy soil on the steps. You may also have fine cracks in the cement that have collected sand. Ants prefer sandy soil because it is easier to move through. I think if you clean up / seal the cracks and keep the steps free of sand, that would help. If you find you have cracks, you may want to spray a pesticide labeled for ants into the cracks before sealing them. An exterminator might be able to advise. If you choose a pesticide, be sure it is labeled for ants, and follow all instructions as directed. The label is the lawn. You may need to keep your dog off the steps for a period of time.
Re: Ants eating concrete steps
Here is a publication on ants from our Extension Entomologist. It may help you. http://www.extension.umn.edu/garden/insects/find/what-to-do-about-household-ants/
