Sasha CampbellDiatomaceous Earth (DE) has become a natural insecticide in organic pest control. Its unique properties make it effective against a variety of insect pests.
This article delves into DE and highlights its effectiveness and the range of pests it controls.
What Is Diatomaceous Earth (DE)?
Diatomaceous earth is a type of sedimentary rock. It can be crushed into a fine powder [1].
DE particles have sharp edges. These particles are what give the product its insecticidal properties.
When insects come into contact with DE, the coarse particles damage their waxy outer layer. This damage causes them to lose moisture and eventually die.
Effectiveness
Diatomaceous earth is an excellent solution for insects with exoskeletons. It targets ants, bedbugs, cockroaches, and fleas.
However, several factors can impact the efficacy of DE.
For instance, DE must be applied as a dry powder to be effective. Wetting DE can reduce its insecticidal properties.
High humidity can reduce the effectiveness of diatomaceous earth. When it is moist, its drying ability decreases [2].
In addition, longer exposure increases the likelihood of DE affecting insects. Pests that spend more time in treated areas are more susceptible.
Pests Controlled by Diatomaceous Earth
DE is effective against many indoor and outdoor pests. Many organic gardeners turn to this product for pest control.
Below is a list of insects and related pests that diatomaceous earth can help control.
- Bed bugs
- Cockroaches
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Spiders
- Fleas
- Confused flour beetles
- Mealybugs,
- Boxelder bugs
- Thrips
- Camel crickets
If you don’t see what you are looking for on the list above, don’t worry. We have an article that highlights more pests that diatomaceous earth can kill.
How to Use Diatomaceous Earth for Pest Control
To get the best results from diatomaceous earth, follow these application methods:
Choose the correct type of DE: Use food-grade DE for pest control in homes, gardens, and around pets. However, avoid pool-grade DE, as it is toxic and is only meant for filtration.
Indoor Use: Lightly dust in cracks, crevices, and along baseboards where pests hide. For cockroach and ant control, apply it under furniture, in cabinets, and behind appliances.
Outdoor Use: Sprinkle DE around your home’s foundation to deter crawling insects. You can also apply a thin layer around or sprinkle it directly on plants for pest control. However, you will have to reapply DE after it rains.
Treating Pet Areas. Dust DE lightly onto pet bedding and carpets to control fleas. You can also apply a small amount directly onto pets’ fur. However, be sure to avoid their eyes and noses.
How Long Does Diatomaceous Earth Take to Kill Insects?
Diatomaceous earth (DE) usually takes a few hours to several days to kill insects, depending the insect type and how much DE they come into contact with.
- Smaller insects (ants, fleas, lice, aphids, etc.) may die within 12 to 48 hours after contact.
- Other and larger insects (cockroaches, silverfish, bed bugs, beetles, etc.) can take up to 21 days to die [3].
DE works, but the process is not instant. Once an insect walks through it, the clock starts ticking.
Comparing DE to Other Natural Pest Control Methods
Diatomaceous earth is one of many natural pest control solutions. To determine if it’s the best fit for your needs, let’s compare it to other popular methods:
- Neem oil repels and kills soft-bodied pests such as aphids, young cockroaches, caterpillars, and whiteflies. However, it requires frequent reapplication.
- Essential oils like peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus deter insects but do not kill them. They work best as part of a repellent strategy.
- Beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps help control pests naturally. This method is effective, but it takes time to attract predatory insects. You also need a good garden setup.
- Companion Planting: Plants like marigolds, basil, or garlic can help keep pests away. However, it might not entirely stop an ongoing infestation.
Compared to these methods, DE has the advantage of killing insects. It does not repel; it gets straight to the point by killing the pests.
So, it helps with long-term pest management, especially in dry places where it works well.
Takeaway
Diatomaceous Earth (insect dust) is a natural solution for many insect pests. It will work once the right pests crawl through, making it a reliable choice.
However, factors like humidity and application affect its success. For best results, use it in dry environments.
DE can be a valuable remedy in organic pest control when applied correctly.
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