Does Diatomaceous Earth Really Make a Difference? Here’s What Happens When You Use It

Key Points

Diatomaceous earth is a natural, chemical-free way to control crawling pests by dehydrating them.

It must be applied dry and away from flowers to avoid harming pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Using it reduces pesticide use, offering a safer option for homes, gardens, and farms.

If your garden has been beset by destructive crawling insects like ants, beetles, and slugs, pesticides often seem like the clear solution. Although pesticides certainly have their place, there is, in fact, a pest control method for dealing with these unwanted visitors that comes without harsh synthetic mixes or warning labels: diatomaceous earth.

This natural pest control method is effective against a host of common pests. Still, it’s important to have a strong sense of what diatomaceous earth is and how to apply it if you want to use it effectively. To help you get started, we asked a professional for her top diatomaceous earth tips and tricks.

Meet the Expert

Staci Hill is the co-founder of Gooseberry Bridge Farm and the coauthor of The Preserver’s Garden.

What Is Diatomaceous Earth?

Diatomaceous earth (sometimes abbreviated to DE) is a powder created from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic creatures called diatoms.

“Food-grade diatomaceous earth is commonly used around homes, gardens, farms, and with livestock,” says Staci Hill, the co-founder of Gooseberry Bridge Farm.

How Does Diatomaceous Earth Work?

Hill says that diatomaceous earth is a pest control method that tackles the issue physically, rather than by employing synthetic pesticides.

“Diatomaceous earth works by damaging the protective outer coating of many crawling insects, causing them to lose moisture and dehydrate,” she notes.

How to Use Diatomaceous Earth

If you’re interested in using diatomaceous earth to deal with pesky garden insects, following these expert tips can help you use it safely and effectively.

Wear a Dust Mask While Applying DE

Consider donning a dust mask while using diatomaceous earth in order to protect yourself.

“Avoid breathing the dust, since the fine particles can irritate your nose, throat, and lungs,” Hill says. “Try not to get it in your eyes, and remember that a light dusting is all you need. More isn’t better.”

Use It to Create a Thin Barrier Between Insects and Plants

“Dust it around the base of garden plants to help control pests like ants, slugs, and earwigs,” Hill notes. “It can also be used around chicken coops, barns, sheds, and foundations to help reduce crawling insects. Since it only works when it’s dry, you’ll need to reapply it after rain or heavy watering.”

Avoid Applying DE Near Pollinator Hotspots

Although DE is a very effective method for getting rid of pests, it can also be accidentally fatal for local pollinators visiting your garden.

“Because DE can also harm beneficial insects, don’t apply it to flowers where bees and butterflies are active,” Hill recommends.

How to Use Diatomaceous Earth Indoors

Although diatomaceous earth is commonly associated with gardens, it can be just as useful for controlling indoor pests when applied properly.

Use It as an Indoor-Outdoor Barrier

Consider using diatomaceous earth as a means of deterring insects, such as ants, from entering your home in the first place.

“Sprinkle it around cracks, baseboards, and entry points in your home,” Hill says.

Sprinkle It Around Houseplants for Pest Protection

After the top layer of your houseplants’ soil has dried, sprinkle diatomaceous earth on the top soil. Repeat this process once the soil has dried again, until affected plants are no longer afflicted with pests.

Read the original article on The Spruce