What is the best way to get rid of fleas in your backyard? -Ray
Considering their four-stage life cycle and the fact that one flea can produce a trillion offspring in less than a year, getting rid of a flea infestation can be quite a challenge! In the lawn and garden (and even indoors), one suggestion is pennyroyal– grow the mint-like plants for a natural flea repellent, or mist areas with a few drops of essential oil in water.
Another natural solution is diatomaceous earth. Available at your local garden center, this fine powder contains the microskeletons of fresh and saltwater diatoms (a form of algae).
The tiny, sharp silicon particles destroy the exoskeletons of insects, including fleas. Be sure to buy garden-grade, rather than crystallized pool-grade, to reduce the potential health risks from inhalation. Wear an appropriate dusk mask when sprinkling it around your yard, and keep pets indoors until the powder has settled.
There is also a large selection of commercial insecticides on the market for lawn use. If you decide to go that route, be sure the product contains an Insect Growth Regulator, which will make any surviving fleas sterile.
With any repellent or insecticide product, whether natural or chemical, keep in mind that it will affect beneficial insects as well as pests – there is no way to target just fleas.
Many years ago we had a terrible problem with fleas everywhere. I worked with a Lady whose son was a biologist (I think) with Auburn University and he told me to simply spread (clothes) washing powders across the grass, around bushes and buildings and just leave it. Doesn’t matter if it rains the next day. Might bubble up but doesn’t affect the treatment. Just be sure of two things: must have ‘phosphate’ in the detergent (use highest amount you can find-almost impossible these days) and don’t use the one with bleach. It will work but make your grass turn brown and slick. (Ask me how I know.) If you accidently do it will grow back but it looks funny in the mean time. Worked wonderfully well and never had a problem with fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and a lot of other insect problems for several years. Did it every two years to keep yard and house clean. I used dia. earth in the house but it didn’t stop fleas. I think they actually loved it (lol). Just a suggestion and from experience.
I sprinkle salt around the house and furniture then vacuum up. Fleas touch this and wade up cause they are wet and the salt just curls them up and die. Also baking soda I RUB on the dogs works like the salt. Works great and cheap
Thanks for sharing your experience, Sharon!