Controlling exposure to ticks is challenging. We own 2.5 acres and a ton of ticks. Like many folks we try everything to control the. The natural control, red grouse and other fowl, have almost been wiped out in Maryland. (You need a permit just to raise them.) And while we do admit to using FRONTLINE, we also have a challenge with the ticks coming in on ourselves and family. St. Gabriels Labratories Insect Dust is diatomaceous earth. Diatomaceous earth is a powder of dead microsopic diatoms, a kind of algae. Some sites write that they are fossilized. This powder roughs up the exoskeleton of many insects including ticks, and the result is the insect dies. There are good and bad parts to the use of the product. In my book the good outweighs the bad. This product will kill bad and beneficial insects. I would rather knock out the bad and then go bad and encourage the good. Lyme disease is not my friend. DE also is friendlier to the environment than the other options. St. Garbriels writes that they use food grade DE which is supposed to be a safer option. This allows the used to use it around pets and children. Some cautions are to be noted. DE is a repiratory irritant so there is a warning to use a dust mask and eye protection. Overall, the application is a relatively simple process and fairly effective. Though rain will wash the DE away and anther application will be needed. St. Gabriels was available at our local store which is always a plus. Here's to a happier summer!

healthyjenny

Baltimore, MD