Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a fine chalk-like white powder. It is made up of fossilized remains. The single-celled aquatic microorganism that they are made of is called diatoms. But Does diatomaceous earth kill fungus? Yes, diatomaceous earth kills fungus via its dehydrating effect.
They are commonly found in sedimentary rocks and mines. Diatomaceous earth is often used in industrial products, organic insecticides, pharmaceuticals, swimming pools, cosmetics, and even in food.
Fungal is harmful to man and other living things and controlling them can be quite difficult.
Today’s guide will enlighten you more on how to use diatomaceous earth to kill fungus and other parasites.
Table of Contents
How Does Diatomaceous Earth Kill Fungus?
The basic mechanism it uses to kill fungus, worms, and other parasites is in its dehydrating effect. The DE removes body fluids out of the bodies of the living organism.
Diatomaceous earth is effective in killing fungus. But when applying on food, ensure to use a food-grade diatomaceous that is harmful to parasites.
According to a study conducted by the University of British Columbia, it revealed that diatomaceous earth was also effective at working against external parasites
Benefits of Diatomaceous Earth in the Garden
The diatomaceous earth has a powerful negative charge that helps it to remove parasites, fungi, and toxins. Powdered diatomaceous attracts protozoa, fungi, viruses, and heavy metals and removes them completely.
Diatomaceous earth can also be used in farms and gardens and in potting soil. It provides moisture to potting soil when the soil dries up. When preparing the potting soil, add diatomaceous earth to the container.
It is very effective in helping plants develop healthy roots and helps them absorb nutrients from fertilizer. Once you apply diatomaceous earth to your plants, it can stay on the plants till the next time you apply water or when rain washes it off.
Diatomaceous earth is best applied to plants in the morning after the dew must have settled on the leaves, or immediately after a mild rain.
When applying powdered diatomaceous earth to your plants, ensure that there is no wind. Spray only when the condition is perfect, it will help get the substance to the desired plants.
How To Prepare Diatomaceous Earth Powder
Here is a simple way to prepare diatomaceous earth powder for use: add 2 cups of diatomaceous earth to 4 liters of water and shake vigorously to mix and then spray on your plants.
You want to spray it thoroughly on your plants where the fungus are gathered and soon, you will see how diatomaceous earth kills fungus on plants.
Conclusion
Does diatomaceous earth kill fungus? Yes. This article has revealed that it not only kills fungus, it also kills other external parasites.
Another use apart from being used to kill fungus is that it an important ingredient that is used to stimulate collagen. It also helps to achieve strong nails, bones, hairs, and skin.
Diatomaceous earth is mostly used around the world as a filtering agent especially in companies that produce food and beverages. Its use is approved by the FDA in the United States of America which is generally recognized as safe (GRAS).
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