Diatomaceous Earth is quite literally the oldest safe insecticide one could use. It's been around for millenia so why are we only just beginning to use it?

Diatomaceous Earth is old, even in geological terms. It is made from the ground up fossils of pre-historic aquatic animals. Think very fine sea-shells and you're on the right track. You can definitely say, then, that this is a natural insecticide. In fact it's so 'green' and 'Eco friendly' it is quite literally recycled too. To be fair, ground up dust may not sound like an effective safe insecticide but what is harmless for us, is often lethal to other forms of life.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is mined and ground up. It is sold in two forms, one of which is food grade. To deal with insects you do not need this finer product, the cheaper version will do. But, if you have pets, you may consider buying food grade DE as it can be used to eliminate parasitic worms in our pets, and even in humans too.

So, we know DE is all natural but how does it work? Well, put under a microscope the particles resemble ground glass, and to insects that is just what it is. As crawling insects move across the DE their hard exoskeleton is abraded and scratched. This allows moisture out causing death by dehydration and in addition allows micro-organisms in (such as those naturally found in the soil) causing death from the inside too.

Within 48 hours of using this safer insectide you should see insects gone, whether used inside or out. In the garden DE can be used as a barrier around prized shrubs and plants or sprinkled onto foliage to destroy large insect infestations. In the home, DE should be sprinkled across the threshold and in nooks and crannies where insects hide.

A wide range of pests can be dealt with by using this natural insecticide. As it is a powder and needs reapplying after rain, it is most commonly used in the home. Ideally suited to indoor use because it settles into those crevices you don't even notice, without affecting your or your family. DE can safely deal with cockroaches, ants, silverfish, fleas, beetles and slugs. In fact it can be used as a topical flea powder on pets too.

This is such a safe insecticide, natural and benign, it is certified acceptable for use in organic gardening, but should still not be inhaled due to its tiny particle size. That seems a lot less of a concern than the long warning lists associated with most effective insecticidal products. If you have insects visiting your home, give Diatomaceous Earth a try.

For more information about safe insecticide, natural pest control, fruit tree spray and insecticidal soap visit the links.

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