Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I live in South Carolina and would love to build an outdoor enclosure for my boxies. The problem is I have fireants in my yard. Over the years I've used various chemicals to keep them under control, but what can I use around a turtle pen that won't hurt my boxies? Would lining the whole pen with plastic help? I've seen garden liners that allow water through but keep weeds out. Could ants get through that? Any ideas would be helpful. Thanks.

look on the general tortoise forum. there are some pretty good suggestions there

Try Diatomaceous Earth. This is a natural product that will kill most insects. Here's a link.......http://www.dirtworks.net/Diatomaceous-Earth.html

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Vichris
"The object of life is not to be on the side of the majority but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane"- Marcus Aurelius

Vichris Variables

You might try beneficial nematodes. They are microscopic worms that, when applied to your property, help keep all soil-borne insects, incuding fire ants, fleas, ticks, and harmful nematodes under control. You can find them at organic nurseries. A package usually costs $24 and will cover up to 8,000 square feet.

Besides controlling fire ants, nematodes are great if you have pets or if you're starting or have a vegatable garden.

Also there are many organic, non-toxic products to get rid of fire ants, like products from green light, and home remedies such as mixing orange oil and compost tea together. Good luck.