So you want to know what diatomacious earth is and how it works?

[GrumpyOldMan]

I did! So I went searching and found this.

diatomacious earth vidio

 

[speckledhen]

http://wolfcreekranch1.tripod.com/defaq.html

 

[dawg53]

Please read posts. https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=369315

 

[GrumpyOldMan]

Quote:
Ok, so I read all the post. Didn’t see on picture that shows what it looks like. Not one Picture of where it comes from and no explanation of how it was formed or farmed or magnification of what it actually starts out looking like. So exactly what are we supposed to glean from the thread that isn’t in the video? You did watch the video? Right!?

 

[speckledhen]

Yes, the video is great! Some with dialup may not be able to view it, though.

The main issue I have with the video is that it attributes so many cures to DE, completely unsubstantiated. I can't see how it worms well when it loses cutting power when exposed to moisture, but I do use it in the nests, feed and on the birds.

 

[Schultz]

Thanks for posting that grump! I wondered where it comes from also. I did know that is "fossil shell flour" but didn't know where they got it from. That was a very helpful video!

This is GOOD STUFF!!! I use it in the chickens and turkey's coops and runs and boy does it control the insects as well as helps to keep the bedding dry. I havn't eaten any yet but I just might get the nerve up one day

ETA: Of coarse I also add it to their feed for worm control

 

[GrumpyOldMan]

Quote:
I take what salesmen say with a grain of salt. I think the minerals will probably be beneficial, but like you I’m skeptical about the worming benefits. But then they may not like the minerals. I was wondering why the silica wouldn’t cut / scratch the intestines. Evidently it doesn’t.

I keep forgetting about the poor souls with dialup. If I ever have to go back to dialup I’ll go crazy.

 

[GrumpyOldMan]

Quote:
Thanks! Just remember…. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. But if it kills you…. oooops….

 

[ivan3]

The primary mechanism of action is adsorption, not abrasion (the activity on insects continues after they are dead, i.e., no friction/movement, no abrasion).

It is a relatively benign, relatively effective, desiccant/insecticide exhibiting greater activity in dry environments, and kill times that vary by `bug'. If one is charged more than $30.00 for 50lb. (minus shipping if that is required), then keep a weather eye open.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=294680&p=2
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=295586&p=2

(with links to actual research on additive effects on broiler/cattle feed, history of use of sorptive dusts as insecticides, pricing stunts).

 

[2chickenrich]

Try this it has some pictures my girls love this they will turn the floor in one day after it is put down

http://perma-guard.com/index.html