Diatomaceous Earth is growing in popularity world-wide. As more of its beneficial uses covering multiple industries is discovered, from Silica products to pest management, Diatomaceous Earth continues to grow in demand. A highly beneficial note of Diatomaceous Earth is its environmentally friendly nature. DE is inert, non-toxic, natural and recyclable. For example, when used as a caking agent, it can be reused for compost.

When looking into garden use, the form of application of Diatomaceous Earth in the garden or large scale crop can impact the benefits you see. Due to Diatomaceous Earth being such a versatile product it can be used as a form of pest resistance or soil amendment.

What is diatomaceous earth?

Diatomaceous earth is a natural sedimentary rock composed to microscopic aquatic fossilised diatoms. It is normally white powder with high absorbency to assist with effective plant soil moisture levels. Diatomaceous earth kills insects with soft bodies naturally without the chemical toxins.

The most beneficial element is DE was once a living form of silica and has high para-magnetism. When raked into the soil, (remember DE must be present in the environment for it to work) it can stimulate healthy plant growth and increase the strength of plant tissue.

As soil conditioner it conditions the soil by making the silica available to plants and improving cation exchanges. Thanks to its density and absorption strengths, its great at retaining water in the soil.

Diatomaceous Earth can also be sprayed onto plants. When sprayed onto the plants, the Diatomaceous Earth will stay on both the leaves and soil. When on the plant it will help deter leaf eating insects. When on the soil, it will act as a soil conditioner and provide plant available silica and improve cation exchange.

Application for potting mix:

It is recommended to mix about 20% diatomaceous earth and 80% potting soil to create an effective potting mix.

Application for insecticide and pest control:

You can utilise a duster to dust diatomaceous earth over plants, keeping the diatomaceous earth dry to maximise its efficiency as a 100% natural pest control mechanism.