Get a jump on fleas before they jump on your pet or in bed with you!
Spring has sprung and those pesky little Fleas and Ticks are going to be waking from their sleep soon. To get a jump on them the best way is to treat the yard first. We prefer all natural options and both of the following options have proven very effective for us.
Option 1 and probably the least expensive is Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade ONLY) it is a “naturally occurring, soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that is easily crumbled into a fine white to off-white powder” and “can be used to help control and eventually eliminate cockroach and flea infestations” (Wikipedia). Just one (1) 50 lb bag can treat ½ to ¾ of an acre and should be applied to dry ground. Repeat in 7 to 10 days and monitor thereafter. You will even notice a reduction of fire ants in your yard.
IMPORTANT: Be sure you get the Food Grade Only type of Diatomaceous Earth, and that it is the White Powder.
Option 2 is called Beneficial Nematodes. These are small microscopic worm like creatures that burrow into the ground and kill fleas throughout the year. Nematodes can be a little pricey for the large yards, but again they are an all natural and very effective treatment. They are also noted to be “most commonly used for Fleas, caterpillars, cutworm, sod webworm, pill bugs, maggots, worker/soldier ants and worker/soldier termites and more.” We took advantage of the recent rain and cool weather to put them in our yard and will probably do so again in a month to six weeks (before it gets too hot).
Of special note, if you do choose the Beneficial Nematode approach DO NOT use Diatomaceous earth later as it will actually kill the nematodes.
We really like treating for Fleas and Ticks naturally if at all possible. For optimum results, read the instructions thoroughly and follow the directions.
This article is based on our experiences with the preceding subject options that have worked for us, but we are not professional exterminators, veterinarians, etc. so it is always best to check with the professionals before using any treatments.