While you are working in customers’ landscapes you might notice a large red colored ant with wings hanging around in mulch beds or near sidewalks. One of the common ants we are getting inquiries about in early April is the citronella ant. They become very active when the temperature warms up and usually right after a rain period. At this time of year they produce winged (alate) male and females. The males are darker colored and about 1/3 to 1/2 the size of the females. The winged females are out and producing pheromones to attract males. The citronella ant is pretty much harmless so you can let your customers know that there is no need
for control.
Reprinted from the April 11, 2008 edition of the TPM/IPM Weekly Report for Arborists, Landscape Managers & Nursery Managers from the University of Maryland Cooperative Extension.
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