If fire ants seem to be marching across your Tampa lawn more than usual this August, you’re not imagining things. Late summer is peak season for fire ant activity in Florida, and now’s the time to act, before colonies multiply and create major fall infestations.
In this blog, we’ll explain why fire ants become more active this time of year, how to treat infestations effectively, and what you can do to prevent future outbreaks.
Why Fire Ants Surge in Late Summer
Florida’s warm, humid climate creates ideal conditions for fire ants to thrive year-round, but their activity spikes in late summer for a few key reasons:
- Mature colonies expand: After months of underground growth, fire ant colonies are fully developed and begin spreading aggressively.
- Heat and rainfall stimulate movement: Ants push upward when the soil is saturated or hot, building visible mounds and foraging above ground.
- Breeding season begins: August often marks the start of reproductive swarms (nuptial flights), where winged ants leave the nest to start new colonies.
If you’re noticing more ant mounds or sudden surges of ants after rain, it’s a strong sign that your lawn is hosting an expanding colony.
Signs You’ve Got a Fire Ant Problem
While most people associate fire ants with painful bites, here are additional indicators of an active infestation:
- Mounds 6–12 inches tall, often near sidewalks, driveways, or patios
- Ant trails across lawns, mulch beds, or HVAC units
- Stinging ants swarming when you disturb soil
- Disrupted turf or stressed grass around colonies
Don’t wait until bites happen; early treatment can stop the spread.
Explore our Fire Ant Control page for detailed service options.
How to Treat Fire Ants (The Right Way)
Not all treatments are created equal. Many DIY fire ant products only kill surface ants, leaving the queen and colony intact.
What Professional Fire Ant Control Includes:
- Broadcast bait: Targets multiple colonies and reduces reinfestation
- Direct mound treatments: For fast control in high-traffic areas
- Long-lasting formulas: Keeps your lawn protected for weeks, not just days
- Turf-safe applications: Won’t burn your grass or disrupt your soil
We pair our fire ant strategy with full Exterior Pest Services to control other common summer pests like fleas, ticks, and chinch bugs.
Preventing Fall Fire Ant Outbreaks
August is your last best chance to shut down fire ant colonies before they go underground again in cooler weather. Waiting until fall often means playing catch-up with mature infestations.
Fire Ant Prevention Tips:
- Don’t overwater your lawn, saturated soil pushes ants to the surface
- Keep mulch and debris away from foundations
- Treat now to prevent egg-laying and colony splits
- Schedule fall follow-ups if fire ants have been a recurring issue
FAQs: Late-Summer Fire Ant Control
Q: Can I treat fire ants on my own?
A: DIY products offer short-term relief, but they rarely reach the queen or treat the entire colony. Professional service ensures full eradication.
Q: How quickly does treatment work?
A: Most professional treatments start killing ants within hours and deliver full control in 24–72 hours, depending on colony size.
Q: Is it safe for kids and pets?
A: Yes. Our fire ant control is applied by trained technicians using EPA-approved, pet-friendly products.
Fire Ants Don’t Take Time Off
Late summer is go-time for fire ants, and for smart lawn care. Treating now can spare your yard, your guests, and your pets from painful bites and fall reinfestations.
Schedule Your Late-Summer Service Today
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Fire ants don’t take time off. Treat now to stop them before they spread.