Effective Fire Ant Control
So Kids Can Be Kids
Fire ant stings can be painful and even fatal. Since fire ants typically nest in the ground outdoors, families and pets are at risk of being stung. To stop these aggressive insects in their tracks, BASF developed Siesta® insecticide fire ant bait.
Siesta insecticide is highly attractive to imported and native fire ants. This highly effective bait uses the social structure of ant colonies, which share food, to put an end to ant populations. Workers pass the bait until it reaches the queen(s), which halts egg production, eliminating the entire colony.
With Siesta insecticide from BASF, you can protect homeowners and their families from painful stings. It is extremely fast-acting, with premium bait that controls foraging workers within 24 hours, eliminating the colony within 3 days. This means no more workers and no more stings.
Efficacy
Speed of Control in Broadcast Application
This graph illustrates the speed of control in broadcast applications. It compares the number of ants collected over time for an untreated control, Siesta Insecticide Fire Ant Bait (0.063%, 1.5 lb), and Prescription Treatment Ascend Fire Ant Granular Bait (0.011%, 1.0 lb). The data, collected by J. Cook at Sam Houston State University in 2006, shows that Siesta insecticide works quickly, with feeding and stinging stopping within 24 hours and the colony being eliminated within three days.
Speed of Control versus Advion
This graph compares the speed of control of Siesta insecticide against Advion insecticide. It shows the mean number of foraging workers over time for an untreated control, Siesta Insecticide Fire Ant Bait (0.063%, 1.5 lb), and Advion Fire Ant Bait (0.045%, 1.5 lb). The study by J. Cook at Sam Houston State University in 2005 indicates that Siesta insecticide controls fire ant colonies as fast as or faster than Advion in broadcast applications.
Length of Control in Broadcast Application
This graph demonstrates the length of control provided by Siesta insecticide in broadcast applications. It shows the reduction in active mounds over time for an untreated control and Siesta Insecticide Fire Ant Bait (0.063%, 1.5 lb). The 2005 study by J. Cook at Sam Houston State University reveals that Siesta insecticide remains effective in reducing active fire ant mounds for 13 weeks after broadcast treatment, demonstrating reliable, long-term control.
Application
Mound Treatment:
- Distribute product 3-4 feet around the mound.
- For Siesta insecticide, apply 2-4 tablespoons per mound.
- Do not disturb the mound.
- Do not apply to the top of the mound.
Broadcast Application:
Broadcast Spreaders
| Broadcast Spreaders | Setting |
|---|---|
| Scotts SpeedyGreen 2000 | 6.5 |
| Scotts SpeedyGreen 3000 | 6.0 |
| Sta-Green 4500 | 5.5 |
| Vigoro 4300 | 5.0 |
| Craftsman Model 486.19710 | 4.5 |
| EZ Spread Model SB5500 (Precision Products Inc.) | 5.0 |
Drop Spreaders
| Drop Spreaders | Setting |
|---|---|
| Scotts AccuGreen 1000 | 8.0 |
| Scotts AccuGreen 2000 or Scotts AccuGreen 3000 | 8.5 |
Hand-held Spreaders
| Hand-held Spreaders | Setting |
|---|---|
| Scotts HandyGreen II | 3.5 |
| Earthway EV-N-SPRED Model 2700-A | 3.0 |
| Ortho Whirlybird | 3.0 |
Spreader settings provided are approximate, and variations can occur between identical models. It is recommended to calibrate your spreader by weighing a few pounds of product, applying it to a measured area, and adjusting the setting as necessary to ensure the correct rate of application.
Keys to Success:
- Best applied at the first sign of ant activity.
- Apply when temperatures are above 60°F and ants are actively foraging.
- Apply in early morning (when there is no dew) or late afternoon.
Important Application Notes:
- Do not irrigate or allow granules to get wet within 12 hours of application.
- Do not apply if the ground is water-saturated or if heavy rains are expected within 12 hours of treatment.
