Will Sevin Dust Kill Fire Ants?

Sevin dust is one of many pesticides that can kill fire ants.

Although GardenTech makes Over 'n Out, a product designed especially to kill fire ants, its Sevin dust product has also been proven to kill fire ants just as well as it kills other ants.

Expert Insight

A study done by Charles L. Barr and Lyle Zoeller of the Texas A&M University Extension tested the toxicity of Sevin dust and other pesticides on fire ants. They found that 100 percent of fire ants exposed to the pesticide died within three days.

Function

According to GardenTech, Sevin dust can be used directly on vegetables and other plants to kill ants and other insects. It does not need to be diluted or mixed with other chemicals in order to work.

Warning

Active ingredients in Sevin dust are carbaryl, naphthyl and methylcarbamate, three powerful chemical pesticides. The skin should not be exposed to Sevin dust, and it should not be inhaled, swallowed or exposed to the eyes under any circumstances. If using Sevin dust, make sure you are properly protected with long-sleeved clothes and protective eyewear.

References

• Texas A&M University: Carbaryl (Sevin®) Dust and Liquid Formulation Individual Fire Ant Mound Treatment Efficacy Trial
• GardenTech: Labels

Resources

• GardenTech: Sevin