Diatomaceous earth consists of 150 million-year-old single-celled organisms with a skeleton made up of nearly 100% silica and 15 other trace elements. When viewed under a microscope, it resembles shards of glass.
Due to its structure, diatomaceous earth has a remarkable ability to absorb moisture, thus having a drying effect on its surroundings. It is used both on terraces and in animal enclosures.
Applying Diatomaceous Earth
- In the chicken coop: The easiest way to apply diatomaceous earth is by spreading it with a brush. Dip the handbrush into the diatomaceous earth and spread it thoroughly in all the corners, crevices, and seams of the coop. You can also use our Rootsum powder sprayer if you have difficulty reaching certain areas in your chicken coop.
- Terrace joints: Apply small piles in the terrace joints as a barrier against ants.
Combining with ChickenHeppie or other beneficial insects
Because of its physical mode of action, you should not combine diatomaceous earth with predatory mites such as ChickenHeppie or other beneficial insects. When you are dealing with an infestation of chicken or poultry mites, we recommend first thoroughly cleaning the coop with diatomaceous earth, then removing all traces of diatomaceous earth before releasing ChickenHeppie.
Precautions – Additional Information
- Respiratory irritation: Avoid inhalation; preferably use a dust mask.
- Do not combine with predatory mites: Do not use in combination with biological control agents such as ChickenHeppie.