How to Get Rid of Fleas in Grass

Overview

Fleas are tiny biting insects that cause discomfort to animals and humans alike, including irritation and itching. In animals, this irritation often leads to hair loss. Fleas can carry typhus and the plague to human hosts. In dogs, ingested fleas cause tapeworms. If a yard is infested with fleas, it is only a matter of time before the infestation moves into the home. In order to keep the home free from fleas, it is essential to get rid of fleas in the grass.

Step 1

Mow the lawn and trim tall grass along fences and sides of the house. Fleas like to hide in the cool cover of tall grass. Cutting your grass makes their home hotter and less comfortable. Prune trees and shrubs so that they do not shade your yard.

Step 2

Purchase diatomaceous earth from a gardening or pool supply company. Diatomaceous earth is a white granulated powder that kills fleas by slicing open their exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die.

Step 3

Put on goggles and the particulate-blocking face mask. Adjust as needed for a tight fit around your eyes and nose. Diatomaceous earth is not toxic to humans or pets, but breathing particulates of any kind into the lungs is never advised. This is especially true for people with a history of asthma, bronchitis, or other lung conditions.

Step 4

Use a measuring cup or small cup to scoop up the diatomaceous earth from the container. Sprinkle the powder onto the lawn, beginning around the perimeter of the yard. Sprinkle the powder lightly; 6 ounces of the powder is sufficient to cover 500 square feet of lawn.

Step 5

Reapply after heavy rains, to replace what was lost to run-off. In subsequent years, apply diatomaceous earth in spring when temperatures start to warm up, to avoid infestations. Apply again in July or August, when temperatures rise again.