Would you believe that one of the most effective insect controls for the garden originates from fossils at the bottom oceans, lakes and rivers? Diatomaceous earth, the active ingredient in Garden Safe® Brand Crawling Insect Killer Containing Diatomaceous Earth, is a thick, white powder that has been mined from sediment fossils of ancient single-celled algae called diatoms. Diatom fossils have amazingly intricate, symmetrical geometric shapes (search online for pictures – you won’t be disappointed!) with sharp edges that actually cut into an insect’s exoskeleton.

Diatomaceous earth has been used as an insect control solution for thousands of years. Ancient cultures used the dust to protect stored crops from beetles, ants and other insects. You can witness chickens attempting the same insect control method when they take dust baths – they’re trying to rid themselves of parasites!

How does Garden Safe® Brand Crawling Insect Killer Containing Diatomaceous Earth work?
Diatomaceous earth (or DE) targets insects that have an exoskeleton. Many insect types, like ants, beetles, cockroaches, crickets and fleas, rely on their external skeleton for protection, structure and strength. By contacting this outer “shell” of pests, DE absorbs protective fats and oils from the exoskeleton. The diatom’s sharp edges also cut into the insects’ shells like glass shards, dehydrating them further. Because it works mechanically, bugs can never develop resistance to diatomaceous earth.

Diatomaceous earth can be used inside and outside of the home but will remain effective only during dry conditions. If the product gets wet or is exposed to high humidity, it will lose its potency until completely dry again.