How to Kill Fleas in the Grass

Pets don’t produce or develop external parasites. They acquire them. And the pet’s environment is the primary resource for these parasites, particularly the outside grassy areas. For every one flea that you’ve spotted on your pet, there may be 30 or more in the grassy outdoors. For the best results, use the following steps to fight against a possible flea infestation by killing the fleas where they thrive: in your grass.

Instructions

    • 1

      Remove any flea attractants in your yards. Modify the frequented pet areas as fleas may be harbored in these places. Remove or relocate dog runs, houses and kennel areas. Alter or eliminate any shady, moist and warm areas of the grass as these environments are preferred by fleas.

    • 2

      Disturb flea habitats in preparation for any anti-flea product. This will allow the product to penetrate and disperse. Agitate any settled areas around patios, porches, sheds, stairs and dog houses. Rake and remove excess green waste and organic debris: grass clippings, leaves, flower petals, loose bark and straw.

    • 3

      Use flea-killing insecticide purchased at a pet store or veterinarian’s office. Apply the product to the yard, avoiding areas where run-off to water sources (lakes, rivers) is possible. Apply the product as directed by the package’s label. Treat the yard every 7 to 21 days or as directed.

    • 4

      Use flea control nematodes: microscopic, naturally-occurring, soil-dwelling worms. Purchase nematodes via the Internet or through your pest-control service provider. Mix the box of live nematodes directly into the soil using a garden sprayer and apply liberally to areas that your pets frequent. Allow the nematodes 48 hours to hunt and destroy fleas of all stages of maturity.

    • 5

      Make a citrus solution. Citrus is a natural flea deterrent. Estimate the area of infested grass and obtain an appropriate number of citrus fruits, lemon is most advisable. Slice the citrus and score the peels to release citrus oils. Boil water and pour it over the citrus in a large but manageable container, soaking overnight. Apply citrus solution to infested areas, including pets, and watch it kill fleas instantly.

    • 6

      Trap fleas in smaller grassy areas by attraction to soapy water. Fill a wide, shallow pan or bucket half way with detergent and water, creating suds. Place in the center of infested spots. Shine a lamp or high-powered flashlight over the water, allowing time for light to generate heat. Watch as fleas, attracted by the heat of the light, jump into the bucket of water and are unable to jump out: the surface tension of the water is broken by the detergent.

    • 7

      Incorporate flea-repelling plants into your grassy areas. Consider a Fleabane Daisy Plant (fleabane daisy erigeron speciosus): a 16 to 24 inch annual with daisy-like purple flowers. Consult your veterinarian or home-store garden expert for more information on these types of plants.