Diatomaceous Earth (DE) All Natural Pest Control - What it Can and Can’t Be Used On

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 4 มิ.ย. 2024
  • What is Diatomaceous earth? What can it be used on, what can’t it be used on, and what are you wasting your time using it on? In this episode I will be breaking down all there is to know about this amazing organic insect control and how to better control pests in the garden. Check out our new clothing line! http:www.freshpickedapparel.com

ความคิดเห็น • 1.9K

  • @terrapin52
    @terrapin52 3 ปีที่แล้ว +341

    "Errors"
    -Corrections:
    1. "Diatomaceous earth is ground up sea shells."
    -It's the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of algae, that have been crushed or milled.
    2. "You just completely wasted like $6 in DE."
    -A 20-pound bag is $13.99.
    3. "It is not a broad-spectrum insecticide."
    -It's a broad-spectrum insecticide. It's less effective on some insects for various reasons.
    4. "An arthropod is any insect with a segmented body and an exoskeleton."
    -Arthropoda is a phylum containing insects and other invertebrates. All insects are arthropods.
    5. "These aren't arthropods: caterpillars, squash borers, moths, honeybees, and butterflies."
    -All are arthropods.
    6. "Worms are arthropods."
    -Worms are not arthropods. Worms are annelids.
    7. "It will kill the worms in the digestive tract."
    -It hasn't been proven to kill parasitic worms, just the insects that transmit them.
    8. "Caterpillars don't have an exoskeleton."
    -Caterpillars have an exoskeleton.
    9. "DE causes insects to molt."
    -DE causes abrasion, desiccation, and dehydration of the protective cuticle on an insect's exoskeleton, drying it to death.
    It's true that DE is less effective on certain insects like caterpillars which excrete a gooey substance which prevents the drying effect, or squash borer larvae which are safe within your vegetables, away from the powder. Basically, if the environment is wet, or the insect doesn't come into contact with dry DE, it won't kill it.

    • @mattjans
      @mattjans 3 ปีที่แล้ว +62

      Can't trust a channel with this many immediate errors and corrections. Enthusiasm doesn't make up for inaccuracy.

    • @Derekandtina69
      @Derekandtina69 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Thank you for the numerous corrections. Please help with safe application method, Identifying correct DE products.

    • @kimberlytrevino2210
      @kimberlytrevino2210 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Well said!

    • @SomeoneElse92422
      @SomeoneElse92422 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      I was thinking about all of these corrections while watching, but I appreciate the enthusiasm!!!!

    • @joeb8162
      @joeb8162 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      Thank you! You saved me the time of correcting him on diatoms and you explained much more.

  • @barbellgardener
    @barbellgardener ปีที่แล้ว +63

    I've used DE for 11 years in my yard and garden. It wont kill all the ants in a colony but does knock them down significantly if you poor it around their nest entrance so they have to crawl through it to get in and out. I also use DE around the base of squashes and sunflowers as crawling pest control. Great stuff!

    • @jamescampbell720
      @jamescampbell720 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      All DE will do to them is cut up their exoskeleton. the individual ants will lose moisture through their shell and they will die, but you wont kill the colony. liquid gel bait trays near the nest will allow them to feed and then take that back down to the larva inside the colony and will kill the colony without any affect to your garden.

    • @essentialcomforts2166
      @essentialcomforts2166 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      does it work for the squash BUGS? (not vine borers)

    • @poeticpursuits1332
      @poeticpursuits1332 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@essentialcomforts2166 It works on most insects. Contrary to this youtube video alllll insects are actually arthropods and most of them will succumb to de if the conditions are dry.

    • @Brocuzgodlocdunfamdogson
      @Brocuzgodlocdunfamdogson ปีที่แล้ว +2

      For ants, i just put a small pile of DE at the base of my plants instead of going directly at the ants. They’d have to walk through what to them, might as well be a mountain of DE before they can even start climbing the plant.

    • @tnorth7090
      @tnorth7090 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      mix sugar and DE for ants

  • @carolecoyote960
    @carolecoyote960 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    DE is FANTASTIC for getting rid of bed bugs!

  • @GardensLadyBug
    @GardensLadyBug ปีที่แล้ว +32

    I sware by D.E. I've used it in the garden against earwigs, in an apartment against roaches, on dog bedding against fleas, ticks and mites. I've read it's good against lice too. I use it as a safe dewormer for my dog. Humans can use it too, for a number of benefits. I bought a large container of food grade DE and use as necessary for whatever need. Please do your homework before using.

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      I wouldn't use it on adult earwigs, as they're worth their weight in gold, eating other insects that feed on my fruit and veg, however it's result against their young, who attack young plants, given the chance, is 100% as an effective deterrent.

    • @judypa38
      @judypa38 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      How often should it be re-apply outside and inside?

    • @mildreddodd970
      @mildreddodd970 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@@judypa38 h

  • @denisehelmbreck1606
    @denisehelmbreck1606 4 ปีที่แล้ว +47

    I have 2 giant raised boxes that were infested with symphalans (pre-existing issue from previous land owners). Our plants were all stunted until we found out the issue. We treated the soil with DE and have had good results with plants so far 🤞

    • @beea4456
      @beea4456 5 วันที่ผ่านมา

      How did you treat the soil

  • @wrosin
    @wrosin 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Years ago i was taught to use DE in the garden to amend it, great source of calcium. Never ever thought to use it as any kind of insecticide. This was a fantastic video.

  • @Standard37
    @Standard37 3 ปีที่แล้ว +232

    Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is just an average Ground attack, good for any Rock type pokémon, bad for Bug types, but Bug/Rock types, it's a decent attack.

    • @bethshrock1120
      @bethshrock1120 2 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      He should have said it this way and would have saved a lot of explaining 🤣

    • @f612CreatorsPodcast
      @f612CreatorsPodcast 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@bethshrock1120 can you make a whole video explaining this

    • @bethshrock1120
      @bethshrock1120 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@f612CreatorsPodcast it's already been explained...😶

    • @Jenoveryonder
      @Jenoveryonder 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Best reply ever! 🤣🤣🤣

    • @anneh7725
      @anneh7725 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Thank you for this, made my day! 😂👍😎

  • @AaronWells93
    @AaronWells93 2 ปีที่แล้ว +81

    Hi! Diatomaceous Earth is in-fact, not ground up sea shells, but the fossilized remains of diatoms (a type of protist). Their usefulness comes from the fact that they are shaped in “jagged” formations, and surrounded by a cell wall made of silica. When they die and fall to the floor of the ocean as sediment, their little bodies form tiny little shards of “glass” that is not harmful to the human respiratory system/skin (in small amounts), but can wreak havoc when an insect comes into contact with it.

    • @kingofthedots3835
      @kingofthedots3835 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I'm glad that some body feels comfortable with exhuming these tiny little bodies for a weapon of mass destruction to the insect kingdom !.....how can you sleep at night ???😂😂😂😂

    • @broodieivie207
      @broodieivie207 ปีที่แล้ว

      thank you!!!

    • @larrywheaton7037
      @larrywheaton7037 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Over dramatized dude , have you ever been chocked out ?

    • @kingofthedots3835
      @kingofthedots3835 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@larrywheaton7037 that was a well crafted joke !....so I thought 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

    • @madusonkeeper
      @madusonkeeper ปีที่แล้ว +2

      In small smounts do not routinely breathe in!!

  • @chia_pet7121
    @chia_pet7121 ปีที่แล้ว +53

    Just an FYI, there is a fresh and saltwater DE powder. The stuff you use for food, and in your garden is safe due to the shape of the freshwater diatoms. The saltwater type, that you use in filters (pool filters for example), is hazardous to breath in due to the shape of the saltwater diatoms.

    • @EdieBabeMonster
      @EdieBabeMonster ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Thanks for this very helpful tidbit!

    • @jjwideawake.9397
      @jjwideawake.9397 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yep, we have taken it. Great for fleas on cats, they can lick and not get sick. Good wormer also.

    • @Brocuzgodlocdunfamdogson
      @Brocuzgodlocdunfamdogson ปีที่แล้ว +3

      100%. Plus, some of the industrial/pool DE also contains other, potentially dangerous additives.
      Just make sure the bag says “food grade” or something along those lines.

  • @ornelamecani3443
    @ornelamecani3443 4 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    I laugh at his opening line every time. It never changes from "welcome to another very exciting episode" lol
    Thanks for all the information you provide. I have been binge watching each exciting episode 😉

  • @schleig04
    @schleig04 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I'm currently dealing with a cucumber beetle problem (just removed about 15 of them) which ultimately lead me to this.. you're already the top guy on TH-cam I refer too and more and more becoming the only person I refer to period for my garden questions.. keep up the good work I aspire to have your gardening knowledge one day.. btw I love the passion and gardening is very therapeutic for me as well

  • @Evagealia
    @Evagealia ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I use DE against cabbage worms (actually caterpillars), and it works. Like you said, it doesn't kill the worms themselves. It does, however, create a powdery/ leathery texture on the leaves that deter the parent moth from lying its eggs there. It's not perfect, but the amount of eggs I have to pick off has reduced by maybe 90%.

  • @jackierothwell5638
    @jackierothwell5638 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thank you so much for a very informative video. You are right because I have found it very confusing when I see all the conflicting videos on how to use DE. But after watching this I feel much happier about what it actually is, how it works and what it doesn’t do, all in one video too. Xx

  • @gardenstatesowandsew
    @gardenstatesowandsew 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Thank you. This is exactly what my dad taught me many years ago. It’s nice to have a review. Sometimes I forget exactly what he said. I wish I had written it down

  • @TheSkiddum
    @TheSkiddum 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Thank you. I've told people anything that has a exoskeleton. I leave food grade de in a tiny line around the walls and corners of my home. That way if the spiders and such walk through it, it gets on them and will kill them. Its been a great way to remove our spider problem. We had a very big spider problem. Especially black widows. We called the exterminators a few times and it would remove them for a few months but then we had to call them again and it was costing us quite a bit. But since we started using this we haven't seen one in our house and I look very closely because we have our son. Our basement is super old and we used to get them down there something awful. But we dust an line our home every 3 months. Its saved us a bunch on exterminators.

  • @sherrysears122
    @sherrysears122 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Good info. I put in my chickens nest boxes as a prevention so they will never have mites. I also mixed it in the duster that I fixed for them to dust themselves.

    • @tonylorenzano1830
      @tonylorenzano1830 ปีที่แล้ว

      I worry about the squirrels, possums and raccoons with fleas---Winter doesn't kill many fleas--They go dormant, until a warm day--hide under the warmer snow, too.
      These poor things can really suffer and dirt dust only helps a little with fleas.
      It can be tragic.

  • @tonimichellesmith9255
    @tonimichellesmith9255 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    MIgardener oh, you are awesome! Your video was right on time! I've been following you young man since you were in high school, and I've not been disappointed yet thank you.

  • @Teaspoonofsplenda
    @Teaspoonofsplenda 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This was very informative. I've been using DE to for ant control but I'm glad to find out about better applications for it. Thank you!

  • @ladytorres8323
    @ladytorres8323 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Dear Mr. MI Gardner,
    I appreciate the video. I also appreciate the scientists that commented with their own passionate comments. I think you gave a very good base to start us in the right direction for self education. That is always a great video when someone can say 'hey, look this up and go from here` basically. 👍
    I will now look up what an arthropod is and that should tell me that "DE" is active in fighting it. Thank you!
    You probably won't say "dumbing it down" again 😂 ... But listen, that is a compliment , that you have so many educated people watching and enjoying your channel! That is something to feel very good about!
    Kind Regards, Mrs. Torres
    Post Script,
    (I am a nurse so my science classes did not include much about entomology. Mainly anatomy and physiology. I am sure this might have been LIGHTLY discussed in some paragraph in a High School Science book, but I wasn't listening) LOL.

    • @wote3403
      @wote3403 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I can’t exactly find the word for your comment but I would say classy and humble criticism. Thank you for putting the words just ever so politely we should all take example to be so kind

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      You might care to read the comment from *terrapin52,* which I found to be quite informative.

  • @ShutchyerLips
    @ShutchyerLips 3 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    DE is also excellent for plant growth because when it is amended into the soil, it helps plants build stronger cell walls. The moist soil will keep it from hurting worms, if anyone was worried about that.

    • @conniekeshet
      @conniekeshet 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      And in a mediterranean climate, dry summer, you woukdnt use it?

    • @ShutchyerLips
      @ShutchyerLips 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@conniekeshet I would definitely still use it. It's commonly hot and dry where I live and it still does great. If you were concerned about the worms, I think the guy was talking about parasitic worms being affected by ingesting DE. I've never noticed a lack of worms in my garden, and I put a lot of it in the soil for plant health, and a lot on the plants for pests when needed. It's a miracle worker for what it does.

    • @conniekeshet
      @conniekeshet 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@ShutchyerLips thank you!!

    • @ShutchyerLips
      @ShutchyerLips 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@conniekeshet hey no problem! I'm happy to explain anything or answer any questions you may have as well.

    • @etchman224
      @etchman224 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Thanks, you answered my earthworm question!
      (I have chickens so i know & they love worms)
      My thoughts:
      #1: good info video! Opens beginners to a "better non chemical" choice. Is all the info 100% scientifically accurate or a broader version? "Keep it simple" or you'll lose people in seconds. Video sparks interest, gets people thinking & investigating. WIN WIN! Objective achieved.
      My rant: peeps, keep yur comments on topic! Who 'daF cars 'bout his grammar or is, but, woulda~coulda, shouda?!!! and you scientist "experts" from the University of Ki$$ my A$$ just go.... Y'all are trolls. Give him a break, be normal & start building people up again. Love & help each other again. Get back to "good" for God's sake! Build people up, not tear them down... YOU are the PROBLEM!.... not his speech or his info.
      GOOD JOB ON THIS VIDEO BROTHER!

  • @Harleyq2011
    @Harleyq2011 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    I just love your channel. Your mission is definitely shining through on my end. I learn new things from you all the time and find myself spreading the info confidently. So I use DE for my chickens, in their food for the worms and if they ever get mites. Because another youtuber Beckys homestead told me I should lol. After doing some further research after this video it's real nice to have those missing pieces of information. Now I know so much more about DE, what it is and how it's effective. Got my dose of empowerment with my cup of coffee bud thanks a lot I appreciate you. I am definitely going to start supporting this channel. Garden love from Colorado over here. Xo

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Have you seen the comment *terrapin52* posted last year?
      You'll find it interesting.

  • @Donna_G
    @Donna_G 4 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    I've never used DE until this year. Ants keep in my home and this summer I found a whole string of them inside the back door below the baseboard heater. I had just bought a bottle of DE and decided to sprinkle some along the baseboard heater. I don't know that any of them were killed; but, I have not seen them since. I've been sprinkling DE on the leaves of my vegetable plants to curtail the chewing of whatever insect is doing it. The girl down at the garden center said that it's probably the earwigs. The DE has helped curtail the activity of whatever insect is chomping at the leaves.

    • @selfhealherbs13ms
      @selfhealherbs13ms 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Very interesting information I'm glad you specifically got into the specifics about the DE.

    • @Donna_G
      @Donna_G 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      John B, cinnamon has never worked as an ant deterrant for me. The ants would walk right over it like it wasn't there. I'm glad it works for you.

    • @sheslikethewind8999
      @sheslikethewind8999 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      For your home, try first Saturday lime!

    • @GardensLadyBug
      @GardensLadyBug ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I used it on earwigs in the garden. I sprinkled it around the base of my plants. The earwigs were coming out of the ground at night.

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      @@GardensLadyBug
      Earwigs will eat very young plants, but tend to favour eating other insects that prey on your plants.

  • @tinaweaver7112
    @tinaweaver7112 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just love watching you because you explain I'm using all I'm learning in my garden

  • @maryanng6841
    @maryanng6841 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    I have had a big problem with "ghost" ants for years! Everything I tried did not work. Then I tried diatomaceous earth about 2-3 months ago. My ant problem is almost all gone! I'm a believer.

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm glad you got a positive result!

  • @pepper9142
    @pepper9142 4 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    This video is so helpful! I've been hanging onto a gallon of that stuff for about 7 years. Never knew what to do with it before today and I just saw it again in my garage after my garage sale last week!
    Thank you, for your time and knowledge! 🤗🤗🤗

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      A gallon?
      It's a *powder!*
      🤪😂😂

    • @ale347baker
      @ale347baker ปีที่แล้ว

      I bought 2 gallons like 8 years ago. I forgot about it. I used it in an infested tree that had huge carpenter ants.

  • @Freedomofchristcente
    @Freedomofchristcente 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I've used it for years. It helps get rid of squash bugs. I've had great experience using this. As long as your constitant . I also have a bee hive. They don't touch it.

    • @susanadotson9526
      @susanadotson9526 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I just planted pumpkins for the first time. Any advice on how you used it to fight squash bugs? I'm new to all of this.

  • @lisafeck1537
    @lisafeck1537 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    It's really great that some here are making comments that seem nicely, maybe factually, in disagreement with MI Gardener. It's really unfortunate, and actually disgusting, that so many just want to have the moral superiority of getting to throw the term misinformation around. MI Gardener has helped many gardeners, me including. He is encouraging and informative. People! Take the information and do more research, make your own assessment of the subject and do what you want to do. Useless bashing, its is sickening! You use up a great deal of energy judging others, but calling for censorship, now that disgusts me, and should disgust every American. My God people! We live in America. Freedom of speech. If you want to disagree then do so nicely. I don't know if MI Gardener got it wrong this time, SO WHAT! YOU WILL LIVE. MOVE ON TO ANOTHER CHANNEL, if you must, but you lose out on a lot of great content.

    • @S.E.C-R
      @S.E.C-R 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Well isn’t this a hypocritical comment… It seems to me that you are the only one here bashing and judging the other commenters that are nicely disagreeing and adding more helpful information to his already helpful information. This is how it should be done, nice, healthy conversations all with the same goal to help everyone else out… and then there’s you with this comment bashing and screaming at everyone else because they are nicely adding helpful information to the conversation, unlike this comment that added zero helpful information to the conversation and was nothing more than exactly what you are accusing everyone else of doing!!
      Have a nice day, sweetheart!

    • @ericsmith8129
      @ericsmith8129 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      He’s literally wrong though. All insects are arthropods as well as spiders, scorpions, shrimp, crab etc etc

  • @jamescampbell720
    @jamescampbell720 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    14yrs in pest control here. You can pretty much use DE on anything, results will vary depending on the pest species. but the moment you water the area you've placed it... its worthless. You have to reapply it. Its works well in dry climates, and for folks who have chickens etc. as most pest control products are very toxic to birds. Another product which can work well is Borate powder. It shares the same weakness towards water, but it will work in various ways on the exterior of the pest, and in cases of things like roaches and termites its very effective when ingested. Its also a natural product, as a mined mineral, it has a similar toxicity level to table salt.

    • @sherriesmith2587
      @sherriesmith2587 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi! I hope you don't mind a question....but, you've hit on my problem...exactly. I have chickens....only three, and my garden is fenced off....BUT, those hens are wiley and they get in the garden on occasion. I have Japanese beetles...and ants like crazy. They're eating my green beans and I need them gone. My problem is that I would just die if I inadvertently hurt my hens. I water my garden EVERY night...late, after the Sun goes down. What should I do? I'm not rich. I can't keep reapplying DE over and over. My neighbors who have been gardening for decades tell me to dust the crop with Seven dust. I know it'll kill the bugs...really well. But, it can also hurt my girls! I don't know what to do. Any pro advice? I sure would appreciate it.

    • @jamescampbell720
      @jamescampbell720 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@sherriesmith2587 alot to unpack here... From the sounds of it, you dont intend your chickens to be in your garden, but they sneak in occasionally. For that youll just need to find their entry points and fix them. as far as pest control products go, your neighbors advice to use Seven dust isnt bad. It will help you control your beetles and ants, but it is non-systemic, meaning your plants will not absorb it and pass it on to you when you eat your veggies. It has the same fialure point as DE though, and any other dust, that once its wet, youll have to reapply. My focus on pest control wasnt in agricultural, it was in residential home treatments, keep that in mind, but depending on how you water your plants, IE drip system etc. if youre wetting the soil but not the plant itself, then Seven dust can sit on the plant and be effective even through your watering cycles.
      Seven will also work on your ants, or a granular product like Amdro will work as well. they will carry it to the colony and it will kill the larva which feed the rest, and it will take out the problem at the source.

    • @sherriesmith2587
      @sherriesmith2587 ปีที่แล้ว

      You are awesome! I really am new at this, and I appreciate the guidance. Thank you so very much!

    • @thereselamarche8745
      @thereselamarche8745 3 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thank you!

    • @Greengirls991
      @Greengirls991 2 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Food grade DE is used in chicken feed to help deworm them. Humans can also ingest to clean out parasites. Make sure you buy food grade and not the one used for pools. Non food grade is the toxic one.

  • @modyosman5059
    @modyosman5059 4 ปีที่แล้ว +106

    Great information regarding DE, thanks for sharing.
    I get your point on how DE works, but the information on Arthropods is significantly inaccurate and one of the definitions of "Insects" is that they are all arthopods (including shrimp, arachnids, etc)
    Bees, and wasps for example are both arthropods, and are even both from the same order (Hymenoptera) which includes ants aswell. While worms are actually Anelids and not even arthropods. Please try to add some corrections in the description to avoid causing confusion.
    Don't mean to casue any offence just wanted to clarify some details.

    • @1231dre
      @1231dre 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Do you know if DE will kill my worms in my worm bin; I have ants

    • @modyosman5059
      @modyosman5059 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@1231dre I'm not too sure actually. Never used it personally.
      Cheers.

    • @FknNefFy
      @FknNefFy 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I concur

    • @leannhoward7306
      @leannhoward7306 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      @@1231dre I did some research and everything I found says no it wont kill your worms but probably wont kill your ants either. Worm farmers do use it to fight fungus
      in their worm bins.

    • @youtubewatcherdesi
      @youtubewatcherdesi 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Correct - MIgardener has a very poor understanding entomology. Artho (joint) Pod (Leg/feet).

  • @SeijuroRen
    @SeijuroRen 4 ปีที่แล้ว +31

    I only use food grade DE. You can use it as a temporary barrier to mitigate ants like for a picnic or party. Also kills roaches it comes in contact with.

    • @Acadian.FrenchFry
      @Acadian.FrenchFry 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      You should ONLY use food grade. Non food grade DE is very toxic to people.

    • @janethcastaneda3810
      @janethcastaneda3810 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Do you know if the food grade works on spiders and how do you apply

  • @josephwatson3706
    @josephwatson3706 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    My father had a tropical fish shop for about 42 years in Dearborn Michigan.
    Long ago he used to sell a diatom filter filter for filtering aquarium aquarium water..
    It was basically a one gallon jar with AA motor and pump the screwed on top on top. It did have a filter cartridge in the jar as well. It did have a filter cartridge in the jar as well. I recall having to put in a certain amount of diet to macious Earth into into the jar for it to load up the filter prior to to using it to clear up a tank.
    It was extremely effective in fact they considered it a water polisher.
    My understanding for all these years is that the diagnosis Earth is basically made up of the skeletal remains of Diatoms.

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      Your understanding is correct.
      The grade you used is classified as _feed,_ mostly used for filtering, usually pools which comprises of larger silicate particles, but frequently contains contaminants, such as Chlorine.
      The grade used mostly in gardening and pest control is confusingly classified as _food._
      You'd think they'd get their act together and come up with better names that don't sound alike. 😂

  • @hummerlady54
    @hummerlady54 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I was told the wrong things too when I first started using DE. Thank you for explaining how to properly use it.

  • @deb5513
    @deb5513 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    The food grade DE is also great for heavy metal poisoning. The molecules of heavy metals like mercury attach to the DE in your body and are eliminated. Great stuff!!

    • @ElinWinblad
      @ElinWinblad 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Deb link to source? Sounds interesting

    • @leannhoward7306
      @leannhoward7306 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      It's also good for humans to aid in repairing tissue, skin, hair and nails, it's a wrinkle fighter and can help deworm dogs or any parasite as well as in humans. It can help you and your pets prevent muscle and tissue damage or aid in healing them. FOOD GRADE ONLY.

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว +1

      How strange you should state that, as DE actually _contains_ levels of three heavy metals, namely Arsenic, Lead and Cadmium.
      I'll stick with activated charcoal, (removes many heavy metals) Potassium Permanganate (removes two heavy metals and also can be used to start fires!) and Iodine, (removes two heavy metals) but best to have your thyroid gland tested, before using it, because it can induce the gland to become over or under active.

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ElinWinblad
      I see you recieved no reply.
      Google for latest research on DE and heavy metals, then just trawl through the results.
      I rarely trust given links, preferring to undertake my own researches.

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      @@leannhoward7306
      Proven via scientific research or anecdotal, ie _"It's said...",_ I wonder?

  • @scrapshackfarms1349
    @scrapshackfarms1349 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Funny I just looked this up today. Thank you so much for your information, and our MI seeds are great

  • @davidbabcock1231
    @davidbabcock1231 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Luke absolutely love your videos, is there a certain brand of de that might be better than another or are they all the exact same?? Is there something we need to look for when buying it??

  • @doloresreynolds8145
    @doloresreynolds8145 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    DE, the skeletons of microscopic diatoms, is used in food production as an inert additive to many things that producers want to prevent sticking together, such as grated cheeses. (As Luke explained, it is super fine powder). Because it is harmless, food grade and inert, the DE is not required to be mentioned in ingredients lists. Any bugs with soft body parts and snails will avoid it. The stuff is not good to inhale, so take the same precautions as with any dusty garden treatments.

  • @vickimoseley7434
    @vickimoseley7434 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Luke, with all respect, you need to redo this video. I won’t go over the misinformation that others have already brought up. I appreciate your passion. The point I want to make is that DE is highly abrasive and WILL cause severe lung damage. If you looked at the precautions industry has to go through, it’s scary stuff. When you redo this video, please start with those precautions, actually tell people how to use it and fix the other errors. Do keep the videos coming!!

    • @katherinedutill2115
      @katherinedutill2115 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      My daughter just used DE sprinkled on carpet’s over night to vacuum in morning, knowing it will kill them. Because we just finding out our 2 indoor cats have fleas ;(
      I have COPD, I’m realising shortly after it was sprinkled I couldn’t
      breath & had to step outside. A bit to late. I read your post & found that it can cause serious damage to your lungs. Needless to say I’m upset that there’s not a warning on bag that tells you. I mean even though it’s food grade, I absolutely would have left while she applied & she would have also taken precautions to wear a mask. : (

    • @jasonrenaud
      @jasonrenaud 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@katherinedutill2115 any really fine dust could be harmful minus flour 🤔I’m just careful about any fine dust... lime, DE, even perlite.

    • @katherinedutill2115
      @katherinedutill2115 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Jay Row. I Appreciate the info. If I only knew before it was spread around my home due to fleas (even though my 2 cats are indoor only). So having COPD it was really bad for me breathing. Using a mask is a must. I’m still dusting from the powder. But I’ve found a better use for it, in my garden. After almost killing my plants using DE (trial & error) I’ve finally have the right mixture & it works good keeping all those little bugs away. Know I have tomato plants
      that are 6ft tall & plenty of tomatoes lol. Thanks

  • @KatherineRoseArt
    @KatherineRoseArt ปีที่แล้ว +41

    Very informative! Thanks for making this video. Have seen people constantly suggesting using it to control fire ants. Tbh I tried this and it just did not work. What did work for me was literally scooping up ants from a neighboring nest, tossing them in... and letting them have an ant war. Both waring sides leave the area in about 3 days. I saw another YT gardener's video on this and was doubtful... tried it... and would you believe it worked? This is how i deal with ants in my raised beds and planters ever since and it always works!

    • @spicencens7725
      @spicencens7725 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Excellent. I didn't knowbthis. I have used sugar mixed w boric acid for ants. It works too!

    • @kizziah7777
      @kizziah7777 ปีที่แล้ว

      If it didn't work on ants you probably didn't get food grade. It works like a dream. The brown kind is worthless.

    • @julienthomas3656
      @julienthomas3656 ปีที่แล้ว

      Genius idea lol it is funny to hear that it always works from your experience.
      I believe dia. Earth is basically toc sick na no silica form and would not use or

    • @moniqueloupe8867
      @moniqueloupe8867 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Fascinating story! I disturbed an unwanted ant nest several times just doing routine planting. In a short while, the entire nest relocated.

    • @poeticpursuits1332
      @poeticpursuits1332 ปีที่แล้ว

      It is informative, but sadly he got a lot of information very wrong. He says bees/butterflies are not arthropods, but in fact all insects are in the phylum arthropoda.
      Worms, which he claims are arthropods, are actually in the phylum annelida.

  • @MadebyMe3
    @MadebyMe3 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Oh my gosh!!! Thank you So Much!!!! I had a stink bug issue last year that ended my garden way to early an I have been researching an researching for something , anything to help with these nasty , mean little nightmares!!! Since they do in fact have an exoskeleton as you said this should be perfect , less expensive and safer than most of the other things I have read to try or use. I have been following you for a couple of years now since moving to Maine 7 years ago and having to learn new ways to garden. I grew up farming my entire life but down south so almost everything I knew was useless here until I found your channel! And I totally love your store!!! I've been ordering once a month for the past couple of months an have another order to place next month. 🙃 So Thank you for all you do and your passion for gardening and informing us all!!!! 🇺🇸

  • @saranewland1629
    @saranewland1629 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This made me smile today! Always love your passion to provide valuable information.

  • @barbkrienke8400
    @barbkrienke8400 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I appreciate all of the science behind what you shared. If I can be so bold as to make a suggestion, in addition to what DE does and does not work against, it would be great to include “how”. I’m still not clear about how to use it - how much, how often, does residue on the ground help at all, and if so, for how long... This was super informative! Thanks for sharing the science behind DE!!!

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      The packet or bag provides application directions.
      However, it has one major drawback and that's moisture.
      On the ground it will turn the powder claggy, (sticky) if the ground is moist or damp, which then hardens into a coating, because, being a powder, it leeches water from the soil.
      Light rain (just a few minutes) will produce the same result.
      That renders it next to useless.
      It surpasses useless when copious water is added, such as irrigation of plants and heavy or persistent rain, as this washes it away.
      Naturally, these circumstances would then require you reapply it.
      Personally, I'd advise using a mask, when applying, particularly if you suffer from any lung problem.

    • @Shwee113
      @Shwee113 ปีที่แล้ว

      Don't trust anyone who says worms are arthropods but bees aren't

  • @jrdalbec
    @jrdalbec 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Rant away sir! This was really helpful. I knew most of what you talked about but there was plenty more that a learned from it. Your passion shows that you are a true teacher at heart. These types of videos are always helpful! Good job!

  • @janrankin2457
    @janrankin2457 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just listened to your TH-cam channel here 2022. I had no clue about this d.e. thank you for getting down deep into the nitty gritty about it. You taught me a lot. Have a wonderful day

  • @patriciariley8343
    @patriciariley8343 ปีที่แล้ว

    Glad I found this, I was wondering about garden applications after using it with my chickens.

  • @gilshelley9183
    @gilshelley9183 4 ปีที่แล้ว +230

    Diatomaceous earth is composed of diatom skeletons not ground up sea shells.

    • @kathryncastanares525
      @kathryncastanares525 4 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      They are shelled creatures.

    • @bakedarea3885
      @bakedarea3885 4 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      Yeah...it is not just sea shells. So maybe you should edit the video and add some text on that part of the video since you mention misinformation...

    • @jeffreydeiuliis396
      @jeffreydeiuliis396 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Worms are not arthropods *eyeroll*

    • @you2tooyou2too
      @you2tooyou2too 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@jeffreydeiuliis396 Per en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Worm, "Worms are many different distantly related animals that typically have a long cylindrical tube-like body, no limbs, and no eyes." Generally, some worms are arthropods(centi/millipedes), annelids(earthworms, etc), ... & humans. ;-)

    • @gilshelley9183
      @gilshelley9183 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@kathryncastanares525 actually they are not. They are exoskeletons.

  • @cathiegalbraith475
    @cathiegalbraith475 4 ปีที่แล้ว +28

    Technically, DE is not ground up sea shells. It is ground up diatoms which are one celled aquatic creatures.

    • @kathryncastanares525
      @kathryncastanares525 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Which are shelled creatures...

    • @geogal10
      @geogal10 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@kathryncastanares525 seashells are typically made up of carbonates, but diatoms are siliceous

    • @trishfrench1927
      @trishfrench1927 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@kathryncastanares525 shelled creatures eat plankton, which diatoms are.

    • @sarahwong5592
      @sarahwong5592 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      They are not ground up, because they're already microscopically tiny. That's the whole point of the stuff. DE is microscopic, spiky-shaped organisms that have become fossilized. No grinding required, and no shell on a critter that small. (Source: Went to school with a guy who grew up in the DE capital of North America.)

    • @you2tooyou2too
      @you2tooyou2too 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@trishfrench1927 Plankton (all very tiny sea life) includes diatoms. Yummy!

  • @territ.5357
    @territ.5357 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just learned SO much! Thank you for sharing

  • @63Kace
    @63Kace 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I think passion for gardening is wonderful. You are so enthusiastic that it makes inspired to do gardening too!!!

  • @swimmarfishy
    @swimmarfishy 4 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Thanks for this - I just had to apply food grade diatomaceous earth to my tomatoes, and bush beans of all things to get rid of black flea beetles - my neighbor's potato crop was decimated by them, and they moved over to my greener pastures. One of the tough parts of growing in a community plot where some of us take care of our issues right away and some don't :(

    • @grantkruse1812
      @grantkruse1812 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Try to convince 50 million anti maskers to mask up....or 30 million anti vaxers to do the "neighborly thing", etc.

    • @kathleenray1827
      @kathleenray1827 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      TessaG, did it help against flea beetles?

    • @aaliyahhenderson1888
      @aaliyahhenderson1888 2 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      @@grantkruse1812 Not the same. move along

    • @faithsfarmlife1424
      @faithsfarmlife1424 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes food grade the pool grade can harm humans

    • @annetteyoutube742
      @annetteyoutube742 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@faithsfarmlife1424 Pool Grade DE is much more concentrated.

  • @dannycereal
    @dannycereal ปีที่แล้ว +8

    We are having a very bad problem in the south right now with stink bugs in our tomatoes. I know people who have literally ripped up their plants in frustration. I have been using DE on my tomatoes for the stinks bugs about 2 weeks now. They are not completely gone, but I hardly see any bugs in my tomatoes now. Thank you for the video!

    • @TheMississauga333
      @TheMississauga333 ปีที่แล้ว

      take the bugs you picking, mash them up in alot of water, spray this around the plant you picked them from, supposedly the bugs will flee, dont like the smell of their own dead bodies?

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      Try the climbing varieties of Nasturtium about three or four feet away from the tomatoes.
      The stink bugs prefer them to tomatoes.
      Grow the Nasturtiums in batches two weeks apart, then, as the first batch becomes infested, it can be uprooted and removed (I throw them directly onto an already blazing fire and toast the critters) to be replaced by the new batch to catch any strays or even a new wave of stink bugs.

  • @lidip8700
    @lidip8700 ปีที่แล้ว

    I've always provided a dust bath area for my chickens using DE. They love it & its actually good for them if they eat some.

  • @brendajackson294
    @brendajackson294 ปีที่แล้ว

    I am learning how to garden and thank you for this information. Last year I had a great start but the pests came and ate everything. This year I will fight back.

  • @murasume511
    @murasume511 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    It may sound a bit nitpicky, but DE can actually harm pets if they inhale the dust. The stuff can get stuck in and damage the mucus membranes in their lungs if they are too close when you apply it. Once it settles it won't pose any risk, so I usually just play it safe and keep the puppers indoors whenever I dust my gardens.

    • @fredvanolphen2953
      @fredvanolphen2953 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Not nitpicky. That's a major point! Never dust your chickens with DE. Any small amount inhaled causes permanent damage to the lungs and shortens the life of your animals.

    • @MIgardener
      @MIgardener  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Well of course there are risks, but that’s not what I was talking about.

  • @kcashut
    @kcashut 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Love my worms, this makes me pause on the DE. It tears my hands up so I’m very careful to never breathe it. Love your videos and appreciate your passion and willingness to share in detail. You make me a better Gardner.

    • @jennybateacher
      @jennybateacher 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Diatomaceous earth doesn't kill earthworms. They are arthropods. The are Annelidae. Unfortunately, this video is also full of misleading information. DE isn't ground seashells. It's the remains of diatoms which are a single-celled alga which has a cell wall of silica. They find deposits of them and grind them up. I don't consider shells as single-celled creatures. As soon as he equated DE with ground shells, I was suspicious of all of the advice he gave here. I'm doing more investigation myself. I suspect what he says about wasps and hornets is suspicious as well. Very disappointed in this particular video.

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      @@jennybateacher
      👏👏👏
      You and many others, no doubt, myself, too.

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      *MyTNMtn Home*
      Your worms will be just fine!
      It's hilarious that he slates others for misleading information on DE, then does the _exact_ same thing himself.
      😂😂😂
      Two years in and, as yet, he has done nothing to correct the many errors he made in this vid.
      You, like others, myself included, will draw your own conclusions.
      His channel, his decision not to address the issue.
      He has 1.06m subscribers.
      Over a quarter of a million folk have watched this video.
      Not all viewers have premium membership, like I do, although some will.
      That means we aren't subjected to constant adverts.
      Assume the majority of viewers are, that's countless adverts and he makes money on every single one.
      I believe, beyond a certain point, channel owners, in general, don't actually care what their viewers think.
      Financially, they're beyond caring.
      They lose a few subscribers, so what?
      Some, including a few of the entomologists among them, will unsubscribe.
      I'm sure he hasn't and won't lose any sleep over those few.
      More's the pity.
      He's armed people with misinformation, so it will be just that bit harder for those conscientious gardeners, genuinely trying to increase peoples' knowledge, for those entemologists to try re-educate those spouting nonsense, because they trusted this guy to do right by them, by why should he, because he's doing alright for himself and has forgotten where he started from.
      I strongly suspect he's a narcissist, but hey, we all have our troubles.
      Say hullo to your worms from me and mine. 😉🤭

  • @loriy7532
    @loriy7532 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Passion is what keeps me in.Your shows are tops my dear,keep it up.

  • @woodsie5796
    @woodsie5796 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Perfectly said! Very good info for those who don't understand it. I use DE for my chickens and goats. Its excellent for that! I use it in my garden for mites too. People can also take it internally but I haven't had the opportunity to research that. I'd like to see an update to this video SOON (?) But then looking at the comments, it seems you don't read them. Thank you and Blessings y'all 🥰

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      Very poor info, in fact, considering how angry he becomes at those spreading misinformation...while he is doing the _exact_ same thing!
      Hilarious irony/hypocrisy! 😂😂😂

  • @StubbsMillingCo.
    @StubbsMillingCo. 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    DE is safe for earthworms. In case anyone else was wondering. When he says worms he referring to worms in your animals (pets) like the ones coming out their hind end.

    • @debbiebell4598
      @debbiebell4598 ปีที่แล้ว

      But how do you get your cat to consume it? LOL

    • @StubbsMillingCo.
      @StubbsMillingCo. ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@debbiebell4598 mix with cat food, piece of cheese, anything they will eat.

    • @poeticpursuits1332
      @poeticpursuits1332 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@debbiebell4598 All the numerous studies that have been performed based on the urban myth that DE is a dewormer have concluded that it has shown no efficacy against parasitic worms.
      Also contrary to this video worms are annelids and not arthropods.

  • @nicknackninja6111
    @nicknackninja6111 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I was told by an organic farmer of 12 years, to sprinkle it / use it for my tomatoes plants soil patch near the base of the plant to stop aphid. which i just checked is an arthropod

  • @kellybergeron69
    @kellybergeron69 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you Luke!! I learned something new! Knowledge is POWER!!

  • @big9138
    @big9138 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It does amazingly well work on bedbugs I unfortunately got them from buying something from a secondhand store and a friend who was a apothecary person told me to use it and it took care of the problem completely and forever

  • @bexaidacandelaria5128
    @bexaidacandelaria5128 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I really enjoy you and your growing passion , learned about from Ice Age Gardener who is quite an informative person himself Your an online helpful neighbor 👍🏼

    • @mattjans
      @mattjans 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Just make sure you read the corrections in the comments too.

  • @MrCdybvrs
    @MrCdybvrs 4 ปีที่แล้ว +86

    Love your videos. I've learned a lot about gardening, but as an entomologist, this video hurt my soul.. Its hard for people to unlearn things, so it's a tab bit harmful to name off a bunch if arthropods and label them as "not arthropods."
    Again, love your videos, just PLEASE double check scientific information (including classification) before sharing it. It is AWFUL trying to teach classes over insects when people come in "knowing" things that arent true.

    • @Lizzamoverde
      @Lizzamoverde 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      ugh I am an entomologist too and I thought "this is too high energy for me but I can bear it because I think I need DE" until I got to the "arthropods are insects that..." ugh bye.

    • @babykei0183
      @babykei0183 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Elizabeth D'Auria I’m totally clueless about insect and since it’s ur specialty, maybe you can help me out. I want to use DE for cucumber beetles, would it actually work on them. My biggest concern is harming bees that visit my cucumber plants to help with pollination. Do you think DE is a safe route for me to use.

    • @asolano
      @asolano 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      TH-cam is filled with people with lots of confidence and lots of misinformation to share.

    • @thefrems2650
      @thefrems2650 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Thank y’all for speaking up. All insects are phylum Arthropoda! There’s plenty of arthropods that aren’t insects but if you have lobsters infesting your garden, I’d love to hear about it! 😂

    • @user-ks5cg5cd7m
      @user-ks5cg5cd7m 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Are those rolly polly bugs really crustaceans? Not actually sure. They dk look a bit like trilobites.

  • @amarilysflores8602
    @amarilysflores8602 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you so much for this explanation. I had a huge bag of "DE" and was so afraid of using it around bees! excellent!

  • @kehauwahilani8706
    @kehauwahilani8706 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Enjoyed the wonderful passionate 411. Thank you for not being boring. I like when ppl say what they need to say, straight to the point. Well done. I don't garden, but really found this informative.

  • @moonwitch72
    @moonwitch72 4 ปีที่แล้ว +33

    I have used DE on my pets when there was a flea infestation one year. It was recommended by my vet. It did say pet safe and edible if licked by animals. It did help alot with my pets.

    • @cgoodloe
      @cgoodloe 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Pet safe but don't breathe it in or let pet breathe it in. Can cause lung damage. Also can put on carpet and under appliances and beds to keep pests gone.

    • @RozeechildRN
      @RozeechildRN ปีที่แล้ว +8

      We had a bad infestation one year and it was my last resort out of desperation and put it around my yard put in on my carpet for a bit and it cleared it up right away! It was awesome!

    • @GardensLadyBug
      @GardensLadyBug ปีที่แล้ว +5

      I've used it safely on my dog and dog bedding for fleas, ticks and mites, even as a dewormer. I've read it was good against lice too.

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      @@GardensLadyBug
      It's effective against parasitic worms, I'm told, but, I may have picked this up wrong, however, I was led to believe it targets whatever is inside the parasitic worm itself, the worm being the host for whatever carries the infection.
      DE is fairly harmless to earthworms and wrigglers, according to worm farmers.

  • @Homebrew58
    @Homebrew58 4 ปีที่แล้ว +116

    Whether ground up sea shells, diatoms or unicorn tears does that change the core of his message? Thank you Luke. I learned a lot from this.

    • @jefftparker
      @jefftparker 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      This. Literally changes nothing about the use or its effectiveness. I can't stand those people.

    • @getrekt3983
      @getrekt3983 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      yes it does change the core of his message because he comes of as a pretentious know it all when really he doesn't know the most basic thing about the product he is claiming other youtubers dont know enough about. you can put it in a mustard/ketchup bottle with a funnel top and lightly dust any plant you want. any one and it kills every insect. you will not harm your plant with this method because if you do it properly you cant even see the dust.

    • @shag6414
      @shag6414 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Right on!

    • @matderseb
      @matderseb 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Still not same material you know its fine to be wrong sometimes 🙃

    • @simpinainteasyRHEC
      @simpinainteasyRHEC 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      🙄🙄 lordy, 12 years old and im looking at an adult acting like little girls at my school.

  • @khanradbharb7730
    @khanradbharb7730 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent schooling.Taught me what I needed to know.

  • @jacquelinewagner7160
    @jacquelinewagner7160 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for the helpful information. I just received my delivery of DE today.

  • @inthemoment875
    @inthemoment875 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you for showing me how to finally pronounce "diatomaceous" correctly.

  • @manxkin
    @manxkin 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I just found your channel and really enjoy it but there is a lot of misinformation here regarding Arthropods, worms vs insect larvae, diatoms, et al. I appreciate your passion and enthusiasm but you speak of due diligence. I'll keep watching. My tomato plants are gigantic this year. Hope the yield is as big as the plants.

    • @deereign4373
      @deereign4373 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Will this kill fleas in my yard and on my porch steps.

  • @lindasegraves6207
    @lindasegraves6207 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks Luke I always learn from you. I follow so many homestead channels that know you or are friends of yours. DE will kill Bed Bugs also. Correct me Luke if I'm wrong. I was blown away with how much garden products you have on your 1/3 acre. You put it to good use.

  • @karlabollinger5331
    @karlabollinger5331 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks Luke for GOOD information on DE. Wyogal

  • @Customer_service_redemption
    @Customer_service_redemption 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Your info and passion are appreciated.
    I just have to mention that you're incorrect about what diatomaceous earth is. Also... It seems petty but i need to mention that chinchillas don't roll around in diatomaceous earth .... I worked at a pet store for sixteen years, so I can say without hesitation that they "bathe" in volcanic ash... Pumice.
    Don't let my negativity ruin anything, I learn from you, there are a few things some people can learn from me.

  • @jeffereyhopkins750
    @jeffereyhopkins750 4 ปีที่แล้ว +103

    Make sure it is food grade diatomaceous earth. They make a one for swimming pool which is not food grade. Love you Luke but diatomaceous earth is really not ground up shells. It is effective and the downside is that it has made my groundhogs healthier but ridding them of internal and external parasites.

    • @HappyFarmsLa
      @HappyFarmsLa 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      oh no the groundhogs! That is funny, not funny. happy growing!

    • @bryanst.martin7134
      @bryanst.martin7134 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Have you considered the sonic pest methods? Basically sound emitters that vibrate irritating sound into the area around it causing critters to leave for quieter habitats.

    • @bryanst.martin7134
      @bryanst.martin7134 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Food grade is only necessary if you plan on consuming it. It means that it was "mined" and washed using NSF standards. The bugs won't mind the difference, and we wash all our veggies, right? And it is much more expensive.

    • @jeffereyhopkins750
      @jeffereyhopkins750 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@bryanst.martin7134 Actually the diatomaceous earth that I found that is food grade is cheaper. A 50 lb bag runs $12.99 whereas a 5 lb. bag of diatomaceous earth fir pool filters is 5.99 so much more economically cheaper for food grade. I work at a farm supply store so they sell it for cattle.

    • @bettyprescott7
      @bettyprescott7 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Jefferey Hopkins I have never use food grade on my plants I’m not eating it I’m killing bugs with it. I have used it for 30 years I wash my vegetables before I eat them there’s no need to buy food grade.

  • @susaniseman3051
    @susaniseman3051 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great information...I've used it for fleas and some beetles that show up at our camp.

  • @pawprint8167
    @pawprint8167 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Migardener another great viseo!😊 Ive used it faithly for yrs🥰 Learned about using it on coccidiosis in calves!! and its what I call a "God Send" ❤.

  • @MrsNoraZ
    @MrsNoraZ 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Thank you for the info, the best part was about the Japanese Beetle which is a major problem I’ve been dealing with!

    • @sandalspa2787
      @sandalspa2787 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      How do you apply DE for Japanese beetles

  • @originalshredder34
    @originalshredder34 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    The only bad thing about DE that I have encountered, is that you need to avoid inhalation by staying upwind. DE can really tear up the microscopic alveoli structure in your lungs, and cause some really bad inflammation

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      👏👏👏
      Wear a mask, I'd strongly advise.

    • @tonylorenzano1830
      @tonylorenzano1830 ปีที่แล้ว

      I don't doubt this Josh or that it could cause cancer in human body over many years as did talc powder on surgeons gloves--But, I'd like to see a reference on this. [ Some people are eating this for the silicon... I might if I thought it was safe.]

  • @rwefree9469
    @rwefree9469 ปีที่แล้ว

    I’m in Michigan and have 3 4’x4’ raised beds dedicated to edibles. One is always peppers, mostly jalapeños but some poblanos and bell peppers. I used DE the last 2 years as soon as I start seeing flowers and reapplying after it rains. Due to being busy I pretty much couldn’t apply about halfway through the 2 growing seasons. I still had well over 90% worm free peppers at the end of the season, over 9 lbs of jalapeños. Good enough for me. Btw, I bought a 20 lb. bag of DE 2 years ago and still have plenty left for this season and maybe next.

  • @krubio28
    @krubio28 ปีที่แล้ว

    Ticks! I use it in my yard to get rid of them. We have a huge problem with ticks in Maine and this is my go to.

  • @BaltimoresBerzerker
    @BaltimoresBerzerker 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Love that you support other TH-cam gardeners (the shirt). Stay classy dude!

  • @KandBacres
    @KandBacres 4 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    For fungus and mould you can spray on colloidal silver!!

    • @gilshelley9183
      @gilshelley9183 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Never ever use heavy metals in garden including silver. Ingestion can destroy gut bacteria. Copper is OK because it oxidises completely. Silver oxides can make you very sick.

    • @nicoledotson8946
      @nicoledotson8946 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      But colloidal silver is food grade medical product... How would this be harmful in stated form for protecting plants?

    • @gilshelley9183
      @gilshelley9183 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@nicoledotson8946 Colloidal silver is for external use only. Your logic appears very sound. However, internal use can be very bad.

    • @gilshelley9183
      @gilshelley9183 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      P.S. Copper is OK.

    • @kathleenray1827
      @kathleenray1827 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@nicoledotson8946 CS never leaves your body.... not for ingestion even though people do.

  • @laurendehrone
    @laurendehrone 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Best video I've found on the topic!!! Thank you for properly distinguishing between the types of insects! Do you recommend using *Food Grade* in the garden for organic gardening?

    • @chefevilee9377
      @chefevilee9377 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes use food grade in your garden only

  • @n0tofthisw0rld
    @n0tofthisw0rld 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    This was very helpful and not boring. Thank you!

  • @debnelson8127
    @debnelson8127 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I use it by fluffing the powder around the base of the house for sewer roaches, common in Phoenix and Tucson. I don’t t think worms are genus Arthropoda but they could be damaged by something would cut it. Good to know it’s effective against wasps but not bees. I don’t understand why though. I thought it was good for adding calcium to the garden. Apparently not great if it’s going to kill the worms though.
    We need more info on this. Hmmm...

    • @realitynineteen
      @realitynineteen 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you that's what I wanted to know! We get them in our garage after it rains.

  • @samp321
    @samp321 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Great info! Thank you :)

  • @cmmcdonald326
    @cmmcdonald326 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I'm about to put down pavers and ants have taken over in the layers of sand and rock they will be resting on. Will sprinkling DE on the sand before putting the pavers down help the problem? Any other suggestions?

  • @paulisemonger280
    @paulisemonger280 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for your scientific approach. I learned a lot and you made me smile at same time. Win win.

  • @debratraina9301
    @debratraina9301 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I've been using it for that past year...since I watched this video. I've used it on and around my dogs food bowl, to keep ants out of it. Works great on ant piles...along with white vinegar. I use at the base of my plants to keep the climbing bug...ants...off my plants in the garden.

    • @katm.1124
      @katm.1124 ปีที่แล้ว

      do u just spray the white vinegar on the plants ?? or at the base?

    • @terihampton737
      @terihampton737 ปีที่แล้ว

      Please research diatomaceous earth and be careful. Even though it's technically not poisonous for a dog to ingest it is such a fine powder that nobody is supposed to breathe it. It worries me that if the dog walks up to the food bowl and starts sniffing around that they're going to inhale little shards into their sinuses.

  • @greenhill004
    @greenhill004 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I love it but can't pronounce it to save my life. Also so cool glasses.

  • @lindashelton2692
    @lindashelton2692 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This was beyond great thank you I have chickens and was concerned on using DE on them

  • @sandrahammond3089
    @sandrahammond3089 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome information I never heard before!!! Thanks so much and keep on educating us😃

  • @bethmccormack5172
    @bethmccormack5172 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I'm so glad Mike Kincaid mentioned you in one of his videos that I watched. Now I have 2 great channels to help me with all my gardening challenges here in Michigan. Cheers!

    • @mattjans
      @mattjans 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Read the corrections.

  • @karriegordon8382
    @karriegordon8382 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    THANK YOU!! I have tried everything to kill the Japanese beetles that are attacking my grape vines. I didn’t know I could dust them with DE!

  • @michellebarbour5777
    @michellebarbour5777 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    D.E. has kept red spider mite out of my coop. I want to know if I can clean out the coop and put all the detritus in my compost heap without damaging the 'little things' that do so much good when we spread it on soil. Please can you tell me, is it ok to put the cleanings from D.E. filled bedding for chickens on the compost heap?

  • @Iceyology
    @Iceyology 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for sharing! You answered a lot of my queries 🤩

  • @reillygrimley9542
    @reillygrimley9542 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    It's worth noting that, aside from all the comments about what DE is made of, you made another important mistake. DE can actually be very harmful to pets, and people, under certain circumstances. Because of its sharp, jagged, abrasiveness, it can actually be incredibly harmful to your lungs (and throat,etc) if inhaled. So be careful. Use it in the ways you described, sure, but wear a mask, and be careful not to "fluff" it into the air if applying on or near pets.

    • @CoreyattheQ
      @CoreyattheQ 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Not at all. It's dusty and will make you cough but it's not going to cut you, not even your lungs.

  • @jtamsmom5
    @jtamsmom5 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thank you for this video. I used the food grade to get rid of fleas on my cat. We were having a horrible time controlling fleas. I dusted the carpet for about 2 months. I tried dusting my cat but she was like no way. Well just her laying on the floor helped. We haven't seen any fleas since.

    • @JESSICA-jq4kj
      @JESSICA-jq4kj 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Vets best is a good spray for cats or dogs for fleas and ticks and it's not dangerous to breath like DE

    • @billyandrew
      @billyandrew ปีที่แล้ว

      @@JESSICA-jq4kj
      I'll bet there's an astronomical difference in prices, though. 😂

  • @angeliquefreeman8801
    @angeliquefreeman8801 ปีที่แล้ว

    All I know is that my pepper plants look a lot better after I use DE. My plants were being eaten up by insects. I put the DE in water, mixed it up, and poured it on the leaves. When it dried, it left a white covering on the leaves. A couple of days later, my plants looked better. So, I don't know if it made the leaves taste bad to the insect or killed them, but my plants do better, so that is a win for me! Love your videos. I do learn a lot from them.