How To Use Diatomaceous Earth In Potted Plants

You’ve probably heard that diatomaceous earth is amazing at keeping away pests, mold and mildew when you plant container gardens. But what is this miracle substance? Where can you get it? And how do you use it in your potted plants? We’re here to break down everything you need to know about using diatomaceous earth in potted plants, from the basics of what it actually is and where you can buy it to how to use it effectively for all your containers. So keep reading!

How to use diatomaceous earth in potted plants

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a naturally occurring substance that consists of fossilized remains of diatoms, an aquatic organism. When mixed with water and sprayed on your plants, it kills and repels insects.

It’s safe to use indoors or outdoors on potted plants and houseplants — even vegetables!

What is diatomaceous earth

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a natural product that’s made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. It’s composed of crushed and ground up fossils, so it feels like sand to the touch. Diatomaceous earth can be found in a variety of different forms, but for our purposes we’ll be focused on food-grade DE that you can use in your garden or around your home.

DE is non-toxic to humans and pets—and very safe! In fact, there are no long term side effects from using DE at all as long as you’re not eating it (as you would with table salt). You should always wear gloves when handling DE because it will irritate your skin if you touch it without protection; however washing off any residue should remove any irritation caused by contact with DE itself.

Diatomaceous earth works well against insects like ants, ticks and fleas because its sharp edges cut through the exoskeleton of these pests causing them to die from dehydration within hours after being exposed to this substance which then causes their bodies to decompose much more quickly than normal if they don’t die immediately due to puncture wounds inflicted by diatomite shards when they come into contact with each other during feeding behavior

Where to buy diatomaceous earth

• Buy online
• Search for diatomaceous earth at your local hardware store.
• Ask your local nursery or horticulture center if they carry it.
• Find a local pet store where you can buy food-grade DE and apply it to the soil in pets’ cages or bowls, as well. This is especially useful if you own a reptile or amphibian that likes to eat its bedding!

How to use diatomaceous earth outdoors

• Shaker
• Soil
• Plant itself
• Leaves and stems
• Roots and flowers

DE is the perfect way to keep away pests, mold and mildew when you plant container gardens.

• Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring mineral that’s made up of the remains of diatoms, or microscopic aquatic organisms.
• DE has been used for many years as a natural insecticide, fungicide and mildew killer.
• It’s also been used to control pests in potted plants and gardens since the 1960s.

Diatomaceous earth is very effective at keeping away pests and mold that would otherwise ruin your container gardens. It is easy to apply, environmentally friendly and safe for pets. And the best part? You can buy it in a variety of colors to match any garden’s design!