How should cabbage be treated for fleas? - briefly
Apply a fine layer of diatomaceous earth or a neem‑oil spray to the cabbage foliage, allowing it to dry before use. Rinse the leaves thoroughly prior to consumption to remove any residues.
How should cabbage be treated for fleas? - in detail
Cabbage intended for flea control requires thorough sanitation before use. Begin by discarding any wilted or damaged leaves, as they provide shelter for insects. Submerge the remaining heads in warm water (approximately 40 °C) mixed with a mild detergent; agitate for three minutes to dislodge eggs and larvae. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow to dry in direct sunlight, which reduces humidity and kills residual organisms.
For ongoing protection, apply a natural abrasive such as food‑grade diatomaceous earth. Sprinkle a thin layer on the surface of the leaves, then gently shake to ensure even coverage. The fine silica particles abrade the exoskeletons of fleas, leading to rapid dehydration.
If infestation persists in the growing medium, introduce entomopathogenic nematodes (e.g., Steinernema carpocapsae). Distribute the nematode suspension uniformly over the soil surrounding the cabbage plants, following the manufacturer’s concentration guidelines. The nematodes seek out and infect flea larvae present in the substrate.
Regular monitoring reinforces effectiveness. Inspect foliage weekly for signs of adult fleas or larvae; repeat the washing and diatomaceous earth application if activity is detected. Maintaining low humidity, proper ventilation, and prompt removal of debris minimizes re‑infestation risk.