Diatomaceous Earth
By Bruce Lee Deuley - 12/2/02

From garden pest and household pest to field crops, grain storage and livestock feeding, Diatomaceous Earth (DE for short) is Mother Natures answer to controlling many pesky bugs. Actually, DE is not an earth. It is the fossilized remains of microscopic shells left by one-celled animals.

When insects come into contact with DE their outer shell is slowly cut thorough by the sharp edges of the DE and the insect "bleeds" to death (desiccation). And because the process is physical not chemical, insects don't become immune to DE.

One difference in DE and the use of chemical pesticides is that DE may take several days to work. It our fast-food society everyone want things to happen immediately. But unlike chemical pesticides that have a short-lived ability to kill insects, DE will control pest as long as the powder remains. In this respect DE is the ideal pesticide, a long lasting residual that is non-toxic.

In houses DE can be used effectively to prevent entry of insects such as cockroaches, ants, spiders, fleas and other noxious pests. It can be distributed in cupboards containing food, basements, attics, along window ledges, anywhere pest might have a chance to enter. Also, use in pet areas (for fleas). In all of these areas be sure to place some of the DE in corners, cracks, crevices and other areas where insects might hide.

In the garden, dust in around your plants and on the leaves. As long as the DE remains dry it will do its job. If it should get wet it will become effective again when it dries out if it was not washed away. Reapply fresh dust if necessary after watering or a drenching rain.

One of the best uses of DE is to add it to animal food- pets or livestock. When used as an additive at 2% of the food volume, it controls internal parasites, increases digestion and provides trace minerals. You will usually see an overall increase in the vitality and health of any animals fed DE as a regular part of their diet.

One teaspoon a day for smaller dogs and cats and about a tablespoon a day for larger dogs will do the trick. Just mix it with their daily food.

Next week we will take a look at Neem Oil. One of the best all around pest control for the organic gardener.