An unexpected natural pesticide has emerged as one writer's 'go-to pest repellent', which she claims will make people 'forget white vinegar'. Ants are a frequent summer presence and can prove an irritation for many homeowners, with deterrents spanning from essential oils to coffee grounds. However, home content editor Cynthia Lawrence claims she's discovered a lesser-known natural remedy.
Diatomaceous Earth: The Natural Powerhouse
Cynthia explained in her piece for Tom's Guide: 'While I've tried various methods to eliminate ants - ranging from white vinegar and citrus peels to boiling water - these hacks typically offer only a short-term fix. However, everything changed when I discovered a natural powerhouse that effectively wiped out the infestation for good. Here is why diatomaceous earth has become my new go-to solution.'
Known as diatomaceous earth, the substance in question is a type of sand made from the fossilised remains of microscopic aquatic organisms known as diatoms. Cynthia observed that it's a 'completely organic and natural solution'. It is a white powder in form, and she maintains the material 'essentially drains the fluids' from the shells of your garden pests, resulting in dehydration and ultimately, death.
Testing the Remedy
She then proceeded to test diatomaceous earth herself on her 'overwhelming' ant issue. Cynthia applied 'generous' amounts of the material to the cracks in her slabs and additional areas where there was an abundance. Cynthia went on to observe that the problem critters had begun to 'thin out', with the entire horde even vanishing within just 15 minutes. She added: 'Forget white vinegar, diatomaceous earth has now become my go-to pest repellent.'
Expert Advice on Flying Ants
It follows reports that a pest control expert has disclosed one simple thing you can do at home to remove flying ants from your house that doesn't require the use of sprays or powders. Stephen Wales, a pest control expert from Bespoke Pest Control, has also told The Mail: 'If flying ants come into your home, turn all the lights off as, like most insects, they are attracted to the light. Open the windows and doors and they'll find their way out. They want to be outside. Some will die in your house, so just vacuum them up and put the bag in your outside bin.'
'If you don't destroy the nest, it will be there for many years. They like somewhere safe and undisturbed like flower pots, under patios, beneath decking, under turf or any pile of debris,' he added. He went on to say that the creatures want to 'mate, breed, nest' and then repeat the process. Stephen also noted that they 'don't hang around' and tend to merely swarm for about two hours.
