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Diatomaceous Earth for Fleas in the Yard

Sack of Diatomaceous Earth powder with powder spilling out of the sack

When it comes to killing fleas, it seems that all methods you can use are about the same. They all seem to produce the same results as well. These methods, both natural and chemical, kill fleas and get rid of the eggs and larvae the adult fleas produce.

The way to find the best one for your yard is to use the trial-and-error system. Buy one and see how it works. If it does not produce the results you want, move on to the next one. Then go down the line until you do.

Keep reading to find out about the natural ways you can kill fleas and protect your pets and lawn at the same time.

What Is a Natural Way to Treat Fleas in The Yard?

There are several natural methods you can turn to help stop fleas from staying in your yard. We will list a few here and you may come up with a few more when you further research this topic.

1. Nematodes– Every living creature seems to have natural predators. It is a good thing that fleas are not an exception to the rule. This little subterranean creature loves to feed on fleas, their eggs, and larvae.

2. Diatomaceous Earth– Is made from fossil materials of marine creatures. It does a wonderful job of killing fleas when you spread it around. Just do not let your dog eat any.

3. Fences– This option stops flea-bearing strays or wild animals from bringing their fleas to your yard. A good fence keeps these animals out and will cut down on the number of fleas that enter. However, fences do not stop birds that have some fleas on them.

4. Lawn Maintenance– Keeping your lawn and garden neatly trimmed and well-kept will help expose and kill fleas. Rake up those dead leaves as fleas love them.

How To Use Diatomaceous Earth for Fleas in Yard

Ground floor view of a sunset from a camera sitting in grass

This is a powdered material that helps destroy fleas when you spread it around your garden. This product is made up of algae fossils, known as diatoms. For some reason, fleas like to eat this material and when they do, the razor-sharp edges cut the fleas to bits.

There are no harmful toxins or other chemicals added to this powder. Thus, it is safe to use. However, you do not want your pets eating any of it as those sharp edges can damage your dog’s internal organs.

It takes up to 4 hours for this product to kill a flea, but it is not effective against flea eggs. You can use it on your carpets and rugs as well. Just make sure to vacuum when 12 hours is over.

How Do I Apply Diatomaceous Earth to My Lawn?

Diatomaceous Earth powder on a piece of distressed wood

There are a couple of methods you can use. One option is to use a dust spreader or a dust sprayer to get this product where it needs to go. These tools should evenly spread the DE over your yard and hit both heavy and lightly infested areas at the same time.

The other method is to use a paintbrush. This option will have you ‘painting’ the product on flower stems. Unfortunately, you need dry windless days to apply this material. It can blow away in the wind because it is a powder.

Pick the right days to spread this product around so you get the most for your money. You can do a light misting of your lawn with a garden hose. A little moisture helps the powder stick in place and remain effective.

How can you tell if you have fleas in your yard? Check out our post “Do I Have Fleas in my Yard” to learn more.

How Long Does It Take Diatomaceous Earth to Kill Fleas in Yard?

Hot pink clock on a bright blue wall

To have the best results, you should apply this product once a month. That way, the regular application can attack incoming fleas. When you apply this option expect it to take about 4 hours to kill a flea.

That is 4 hours for each flea. So, make sure you apply enough of this product to your lawn and garden. Be careful when you apply this product. If it gets into your eyes, you can cause yourself some eye damage.

Also, if you want to apply diatomaceous earth to your lawn, it should be food grade, not pool grade. The latter can harm some lawns.

Some Final Words

Pile of Diatomaceous Earth on a grey background

Killing fleas naturally is usually the best way. That method is better for your lawns, flowers, and pets. To help fight fleas, make sure to build a good fence that will keep most animals out of your yard.

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