Diatomaceous Earth - Using D.E. for Pest Control

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Food-Grade Diatomaceous earth comes in the form of a chalky powder, and is the natural fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of hard-shelled algae. These diatom particles are very small and sharp – but only harmful to the small exoskeletons of insects. Insects cannot become immune to its action, as it is a mechanical killer – not a chemical one. Because it is like a light dust, it easily clings to the bodies of insects as they walk and crawl over it. The tiny diatom particles then cut the waxy coating of insects and they eventually dry out and die of dehydration within 48 hours. It is an all-natural product that is so safe, it can be sprinkled around your vegetable patch, or rubbed right into your dog’s fur. Non-food-grade diatomaceous earth is dangerous and should be avoided.

What insects does it control? Insect Dust kills the following insects:

ants,

ticks,

fleas,

aphids,

silverfish,

cockroaches,

bed bugs,

spiders,

carpet beetles,

slugs,

snails,

tomato hornworm,

house flies,

fruit flies,

red spider mites,

and earwigs.

Where can it be used?

For indoor use lightly coat a thin layer in areas where insects are found or may hide. Can be used in cupboards, behind and beneath refrigerators, cabinets, stoves, garbage cans, and in or around sewer and drain pipes. Thoroughly apply to areas of infestation.

For Fleas & Ticks:

For indoor use: Thoroughly dust carpets and pet's bedding and sleeping areas, as well as cracks and baseboards. It also can be rubbed into your pet's fur.

For outdoor use: Lightly coat a thin layer where other insects are found. Areas such as patios, windows, door frames, foundations, along ant trails and outdoor pipes and drains.

Where to buy: While DE spells death to insects, it is harmless to humans and pets & can be purchased in plant nurseries and food storage shops. A few sites listed below:

Shown above: http://eartheasy.com/insect-dust-diatomaceous-earth-4-lbs

http://www.gardenharvestsupply.com/productcart/pc/Diatomaceous-Earth-Food-Grade-p39.html

http://www.earthworkshealth.com/

http://www.dirtworks.net/Diatomaceous-Earth.html

A word of caution: Diatomaceous earth for pest control should not be confused with "Pool Grade" diatomaceous earth, which is treated with heat, causing the formerly amorphous silicon dioxide to assume crystalline form which is not effective for insect pest control. POOL GRADE D.E. IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND CAN CAUSE SILICOSIS (scarring of the lungs similar to asbestos poisoning).