An unexpected natural pesticide has become one writer's "go-to pest repellent", which she claims will make people "forget white vinegar". Ants are a common summer sight and can be a real nuisance for homeowners, with deterrents ranging from essential oils to coffee grounds — but home content editor Cynthia Lawrence says she's found a lesser-known natural solution.
Diatomaceous Earth: A Natural Powerhouse
Cynthia wrote 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."
Diatomaceous earth is a type of sand made from the fossilised remains of microscopic aquatic organisms known as diatoms. Cynthia noted that it's a "completely organic and natural solution". A white powder in appearance, she claims the substance "essentially drains the fluids" from the shells of your garden pests, causing dehydration and death.
Rapid Results in 15 Minutes
She set about trying diatomaceous earth for herself on her "overwhelming" ant problem. Cynthia applied "generous" quantities of the substance to the cracks in her slabs and other areas where there was an abundance. Cynthia quickly noted that the hordes had started to "thin out", with the entire lot disappearing in only 15 minutes. She added: "Forget white vinegar, diatomaceous earth has now become my go-to pest repellent."
Expert Advice on Flying Ants
It comes after a pest control expert disclosed one simple thing you can do to remove flying ants from your home that doesn't require the use of sprays or powders. Stephen Wales, a pest control expert from Bespoke Pest Control, 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."
He added: "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." Stephen also noted that the creatures want to "mate, breed, nest" and then repeat the process, and they "don't hang around" — they tend to merely swarm for about two hours.
