How to use food grade diatomaceous earth for Pest Control

You can sprinkle it directly on the ground where slugs are most likely to reproduce. Or, you can apply a light dusting to the plants themselves.

Diatomaceous earth must be reapplied after every rain or heavy dew to be effective. It’s important to remember that wet DE does not have the drying, cutting effect that’s needed to be work against pests.

It is important to note that “food grade” diatomaceous earth is the only kind appropriate for use in gardens, and around pets and kids.

Diatomaceous earth: Effective natural pest control

How do you use food-grade diatomaceous earth for pest control?

How to Keep Snakes and Slugs Away With Diatomaceous Earth Leaving a slug infestation to continue unabated in your garden will attract predators like garter snakes and small mammals, which can in turn attract larger, more dangerous snakes. Always keep your garden free of pests or detritus to ensure your garden is a safe, snake-free environment, especially in the summer months.

Slugs can carry various diseases and parasites, posing potential risks to humans. Let’s explore some of these:

Rat Lungworm (Angiostrongylus cantonensis): This parasitic worm is commonly associated with slugs. Although it primarily comes from rats, slugs can also become carriers.
Other Diseases Associated with Slugs:
- Lyme Disease
- Ehrlichiosis
- Anaplasmosis
- Salmonella
- Leptospirosis

While slugs are not direct transmitters of diseases to humans, they can carry harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli in their slime and excrement. Ingesting these bacteria can lead to food poisoning and other illnesses. It’s essential to take precautions when handling slugs, including wearing gloves and thoroughly washing hands after contact. Additionally, washing produce that may have come into contact with slugs reduces the risk of bacterial contamination.