Throughout the year but particularly during the winter in Sacramento we often run into problems with ants.  The rains drive the little creatures inside like the rest of us.  If you suffer from ants you are not alone.  Ants are one of the most prevalent pests in the Sacramento area.

Spraying chemicals is the most common way we try to get rid of them.  However, it is not the most effective way to rid your home of the pests.  The most essential thing you can do is to prevent them from entering your home.  And, while ants are annoying when they breach your house they are often very beneficial outside because they feed on fleas, termites, and other pests in your garden.

According to Master Gardeners affiliated with the University of California's Intergrated Pest Management Program there are some less toxic and very effective ways of keeping ants out of your home.  They are:

1. Caulk cracks and crevices that provide entry points;
2. Store food that would attract ants in closed containers;
3. Clean up grease and spills right away;
4. Find and remove indoor nesting sites - potted plants are often a prime source;
5. Ant-proof kitchen garbage containers with sticky barriers of petroleum jelly under the rim and pet dishes by placing them in a moat of water; and
6. Remove sweet food sources next to your house such as ripened fruit on trees and aphid-infested bushes.

And, if the pesky ants invade your home:

1. Sponge invaders with soapy water as soon as they enter;
2. Plug up ant entry ways with caulk or petroleum jelly;
3. Clean up food sources;
4. Rely on baits to control the ant colony; and
5. Indoor sprays are not recommended.

Hopefully, by following these few environmentally friendly ways of dealing with the little critters will succeed.  But, if you want more information and tips on less toxic ways to control pests around your home please call the Master Gardeners Program at (916)875-6913 or visit their website at www.ipm.ucdavis.edu.