FINELY GROUND POWDER OF DIATOMACEOUS EARTH (DA)

Diatomaceous earth (DE), also known as amorphous silica, is sometimes recommended in other states or on-line as an in-hive control for small hive beetle. 

100% natural and chemical free being environmentally safe

Natural Pesticide for Small Hive Beetles (SHB) and Wax Moth. Diatomaceous earth (DE) can be used in most beetle traps. The product is also useful in providing a barrier to ants where it can be used in ant feet underneath the bee hive as a substitute to vegetable oil.

Available in 500g Applicator, 1kg and 2kg sizes. 
Applicator can be refilled from 1kg and 2kg sized bags.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE), also known as Diatomite, is the naturally occurring fossilized remains of diatoms. Diatoms are single-celled aquatic algae. They belong to the class of golden-brown algae known as Bacillariophyceae. Diatomaceous Earth is a near pure sedimentary deposit consisting almost entirely of amorphous silica. Silica is a common natural component of everything from sand and rocks to plants and animals. It is not crystalline silica. The heating process does not exceed the temperature necessary to convert amorphous silica to crystalline silica.

Natural Pesticide

Diatomaceous earth is a non-toxic way to control pests in the beehive and the garden. It is effective against all insect pests that crawl because contact with the powder is extremely dehydrating.

When used in specific area of the beehive and pests meet it, the fine powder gets into their joints and slows down their movements. In addition, the dry powder dehydrating properties is the main mechanism of action, wetness renders the powder temporarily ineffective, but it starts working once the water dries up.  Although diatomaceous earth is a non-selective insecticide, flying insects like bees are less affected as they don’t come in contact with substance.

Plant Health

A benefit of this inorganic rock is that it does not attract or host fungi or insects. Thus, avoiding a whole lot of problems.  Its ability to hold 2 times its weight of water, create aeration and provide plant available silica.

Soil Conditioning

A good soil requires sufficient water and nutrient loading as well as little compaction to allow easy exchange of gases. The roots of plants require continuous transportation of carbon dioxide and oxygen to and from the surface.

Improves the quality of soil because of its porous properties, water and gases can be transported easily through the pores and nutrients can be stored in the microscopic holes. Breaks up heavy soil. Can be used as a soil amendment to improve the porosity and drainage of soils. Also provides plant available silica for plants.

Industrial Spillage Absorbent

Spread over spill, leave for a while until all the liquid has been absorbed, then sweep up and dispose of contained spillage according to regulations.

Domestic Use / Pet Litter

Excellent for absorbing grease in barbecue and grill drip trays where fat can pose a significant fire hazard. Can also be used to absorb odours in fridges, ashtrays and rubbish bins. One of the most popular and efficient pet litter materials. It also absorbs odours. (After use, add to garden to maximise water retention.)