Industrial-Strength Flea Killers for the Yard

Treating the Yard

• Mike Potter, Extension entomologist at the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, recommends focusing on the areas the pets frequent, such as the doghouse and dog run, decks and along the foundations of the building where they lie and rest. Spray the areas identified with insecticides that you can apply using a hose-end or a pump-up sprayer. Keep your pets away from the treated areas until the products have dried completely.

Chlorpyrifos

• This insecticide is a broad-spectrum organophosphate chemical available as a solid white crystalline product and is reasonably effective against fleas both indoors and outdoors. The chemical is an active ingredient in a number of household sprays. Although it has been in use for many years, the chemical can be harmful to both people and animals, and you should use it with care. The use of chlorpyrifos is illegal in some states, so check your local statutes before using it.

Permethrin

• Permethrin is a synthetic insecticide based on the chemical ingredient of pyrethrin, a natural product made from the flowers of the chrysanthemum plant. It is stronger and more effective than the natural product and does not break down in sunlight. Products containing permethrin are effective at killing fleas and are widely used in residential applications.

Methoprene and Pyriproxyfen

• Methoprene and pyriproxyfen are growth regulators that mimic the natural juvenile hormone of insects. Larvae treated with these chemicals are unable to reach maturity and lay eggs, which helps break the cycle of flea infestation. Methoprene is an active ingredient in pet flea treatments, and use of products containing these chemicals will help to ensure long-term freedom from fleas in the yard.

Diatomaceous Earth

• This is a natural sediment derived from the microscopic fossils of tiny plants. It contains magnesium, silicon, calcium, sodium, iron and other trace minerals. The dust particles have razor-sharp edges that cut through a flea's protective exterior skeleton, which causes the flea to die. Spread it around your yard, and dust surfaces with the powder. Make sure you use food-grade diatomaceous earth, and not the type used for swimming pool filters.

Treating the Pets

• Treating your pets is critical to maximize the effectiveness of the yard treatment. Fleas live on animals' bodies, and if the pets remain untreated, they may continue to transport fleas, and the yard treatment will be useless. Treat the pets with veterinarian-recommended products, preferably at the same time that you treat the yard, and repeat the treatments regularly.