How are fire ants removed without endangering vegetation nearby?

Question

My parents seem to have a large problem with fire ants in their backyard. They're more of an inconvenience than anything.

What seems to be the most effective method (chemical, or a technique based, etc; doesn't need to be a specific product) of removing fire ants without harming or hurting any neighboring vegetation? Also, please provide a reason why.

We don't have any trees ( How do I control fire ants in the mulch around my tree? ) in the backyard thus the reason for this post.

Answer 1

Ed Staub's answer here is appropriate and relevant. And this comment on Ed's post is informative. Who knew those little red guys had their own web site?

My take on the information is that chemical methods are common and available. Organic bio control is available in some areas. Home grown remedies seem to be ineffective and potentially dangerous.

Good luck!