DE usage

[huntercf]

I saw some DE at Lowe's today and wondered if I can use that around my chickens? I looked for food grade on the packaging but it didn't say, it did say to keep it away from children and pets.

 

[canada-goose]

Sounds like industrial grade DE. You probably shouldn't use that stuff anywhere near your chickens.

 

[kla37]

The stuff at the big box stores isn't food grade or for use around livestock. Farm supply stores usually carry it, I know our local Southern States does. It has to be a kind that is approved for use for livestock. I mix some in with the chickens' dust bath box in their run, and sprinkle it occasionally in their bedding and run. Use in feed too to help prevent intestinal parasites.

 

[huntercf]

Thanks, I thought that is wasn't safe to use, just wanted to check.

 

[Paaz1120]

Your local Feed store will have DE. and it is usually pretty cheap. Thats where I get mine.
I actually have to get some more tomorrow.

 

[Wolfwoman]

It needs to say FOOD GRADE on it, or you'll be killing things you don't want to.

 

[Sonoran Silkies]

Lowes carries agricultural grade and/or food grade DE in the section with organic pesticides. They also carry pool filter DE in the section with pool chemicals. Read the package and the listed uses.