Enny Meany Nem-A-Tode
Spring has snuck in earlier this year, and we have already seen a spring flea or two. Last year, we gave nematodes a try, and even with a damp, cool summer, we nary saw a flea. (Cool that is for Central Texas, only made it over 100° a few times all summer.) Last year’s blog entry: Finding Nemo-todes
So last week, we did a early application of our little flea-eating friends and haven’t seen one since. May skip the chemical deterrent if the nematodes can keep do the job alone. Safer for dogs, for us, and environment.
If you live in Central Texas, you can get nematodes from:
• Bark ‘n Purr
• Natural Gardener
Last year, we got them from Bark ‘n Purr. They even carried the spray bottle attachment to mix the nematodes and water. This year, we went looking for them so early they didn’t have them in stock yet. (First shipment is due in March.) They recommended trying Natural Gardener and we did find them there.
Nematodes aren’t very expensive. Around $20-25 to spray an average-sized yard.
You’ll need a clean hose-end sprayer to mix nematodes and water to spray the yard with. If it’s one you’ve had around and used with fertilizer or other chemicals, it will hurt the nematodes and they won’t have a chance to do their job. So be sure to use a clean one.
If you aren’t in the Central Texas area, ask your local nursery or pet shop if they carry them. (A locally-owned or independent shop is your best bet.) Or try an internet search. Because nematodes are kept cool or refrigerated to maintain hibernation, have them shipped as quickly as possible.
Wishing you a flea-free spring and summer!
