Diatomaceous Earth: A Multipurpose Natural Product
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a naturally occurring, soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that can be crushed into a fine white to off-white powder. It's made up of the fossilised remains of tiny, single-celled algae called diatoms.
We stock Diatomaceous earth here at Gidge Rural, your local farm supply business in beautiful Gidgegannup Western Australia. We supply local and ship to you if needed. If you have any questions, please let us know at sales@gidgerural.com.au.
Diatomaceous earth (DE) has a wide variety of uses around the home and garden. Here are a few of the most common we see:
- Pest control: DE can be used to control a variety of pests, including ants, cockroaches, fleas, mites, and bed bugs. It works by dehydrating the pests' exoskeletons, causing them to die.
- Food additive: DE is a source of silica, which is an important mineral for bone health. It can be added to pet food or livestock feed as a natural dewormer.
- Water filter: DE can be used as a filter media to remove impurities from water. It is especially effective at removing cysts and other microscopic organisms.
- Industrial applications: DE is also used in a variety of industrial applications, such as in the production of paint and rubber.
Important things to note:
- DE is a safe and effective product when used correctly. However, it is important to choose a food-grade DE if you plan to use it around food or pets.
- DE can irritate the lungs if inhaled. It is important to wear a mask when applying DE, especially in enclosed spaces.
- DE is not a cure-all. It is important to use it in conjunction with other pest control methods.
Store diatomaceous earth in a cool, dry, and airtight container away from moisture and direct sunlight. This will help to preserve its effectiveness and prevent clumping. It is important to keep it out of reach of children and pets.
When handling diatomaceous earth, avoid inhaling the dust. 1Wear a dust mask and eye protection to minimise exposure. Be sure to wash your hands after use. Clean up any spills promptly with a damp cloth or vacuum cleaner.
Whether you need fencing supplies, pipe fittings, general hardware, sands and soils, or essentials for your farm animals, pets, and poultry, we have you covered here at Gidge Rural. We're proud to support our local community and encourage you to visit our store for a friendly chat and to explore our wide selection of products.
