Can Diatomaceous Earth be Mixed with Water?

by

Yes, diatomaceous earth (DE) can be mixed with water! While DE is most effective as a dry powder for pest control, mixing it with water can be a highly effective way to apply it in hard-to-reach areas, on vertical surfaces, or when you want to avoid creating dust. Whether you’re using it for pest control, gardening, or as a spray for other applications, DE and water can be a powerful combination.

BUY THIS DE PEST CONTROL KIT

Why Mix Diatomaceous Earth with Water?

There are several practical reasons to mix diatomaceous earth with water:

  1. Easier Application:
    • Mixing DE with water allows you to spray it on vertical surfaces, in cracks and crevices, or into places where a powder might not easily stay put.
  2. Minimize Dust:
    • Applying DE as a powder can create dust that can irritate the lungs if inhaled. Using a water mixture helps reduce airborne dust and allows for safer application, especially indoors.
  3. Target Hard-to-Reach Areas:
    • A water-DE mixture is perfect for reaching behind appliances, into wall voids, or deep into cracks where pests hide.
  4. Create a Barrier:
    • When the water evaporates, it leaves behind a fine layer of DE that acts as a barrier to crawling pests like ants, roaches, and bed bugs.

How to Mix Diatomaceous Earth with Water

Here’s a step-by-step guide to mixing DE with water for effective use:

BUY THIS 5LB CRAWLING CONTROL INSECT DE

BUY THIS FOOD GRADE DE

Materials Needed:

  • Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth: Always use food-grade DE, especially if using it in your home or garden.
  • Water: Plain tap water works fine.
  • Spray Bottle or Garden Sprayer: Choose the size that suits your application needs.
  • Stirring Stick or Spoon: For mixing the solution.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Mixture:
    • Mix 2 tablespoons of diatomaceous earth per 1 quart (liter) of water. This is a good starting ratio; you can adjust it as needed based on your application method.
  2. Stir Thoroughly:
    • Stir the mixture well to ensure the DE is evenly suspended in the water. DE tends to settle quickly, so you’ll need to stir or shake the bottle frequently during application.
  3. Fill the Spray Bottle:
    • Pour the DE-water mixture into a spray bottle or garden sprayer. Make sure to leave some space at the top to allow for shaking.
  4. Apply the Spray:
    • Spray the mixture directly onto surfaces where you want to apply DE. This could be along baseboards, in cracks, behind appliances, on plants (for gardening), or in any pest-prone areas.
    • Note: Spray lightly; you want to cover the area with a fine mist. A heavy application may result in unnecessary clumping or runoff.
  5. Allow to Dry:
    • Let the sprayed areas dry completely. As the water evaporates, a fine dusting of DE will be left behind. This is what provides the insect-killing action.

Where to Use a Diatomaceous Earth and Water Mixture

A DE and water mixture can be used in a variety of settings:

1. Indoor Pest Control

  • Baseboards and Molding: Spray along baseboards and molding where pests like ants and roaches travel.
  • Cracks and Crevices: Use the spray to reach cracks, gaps, and hidden areas where pests hide.
  • Behind Appliances: Great for spraying behind and underneath heavy appliances like refrigerators and stoves.

2. Outdoor Pest Control

  • Garden Beds: Spray around the base of plants or in flower beds to control garden pests like aphids, slugs, and beetles. Avoid spraying directly on flowers to protect pollinators like bees.
  • Foundation and Entry Points: Spray along the foundation and around windows and doors to prevent crawling insects from entering your home.

3. Animal and Livestock Areas

  • Coops and Barns: Use a DE and water spray in chicken coops, barns, or pet areas to control mites, fleas, and other pests. Ensure the area is dry before allowing animals back in.

Tips for Using Diatomaceous Earth and Water Effectively

  • Shake Frequently: DE settles quickly in water, so shake the spray bottle or garden sprayer frequently to keep it well-mixed.
  • Reapply as Needed: If the DE gets wet from rain or watering, or if you clean the area, you will need to reapply the mixture.
  • Apply in Dry Weather for Outdoor Use: For outdoor applications, apply the DE-water mixture when no rain is expected for a few days to allow the DE to stay in place.
  • Use Food-Grade DE Only: Always use food-grade diatomaceous earth, especially in homes, gardens, and areas where children and pets are present.

Pros and Cons of Using a Diatomaceous Earth and Water Mixture

Pros:

  • Reduced Dust: Safer to apply indoors or in confined spaces without creating dust clouds.
  • Better Coverage: Reaches areas where a dry powder may not stay put.
  • Non-Toxic and Safe: Food-grade DE is safe for use around humans, pets, and in gardens.

Cons:

  • Requires Reapplication: Needs to be reapplied if disturbed or exposed to moisture.
  • Settling Issues: DE settles at the bottom of the spray bottle, requiring frequent shaking.
  • Slower Drying Time: Takes time for the water to evaporate, leaving behind DE.

Conclusion

Mixing diatomaceous earth with water is an excellent way to apply this natural insecticide in hard-to-reach areas, minimize dust, and cover large surfaces more efficiently. While DE is most potent in its dry form, a water mixture still provides an effective way to create barriers against pests in both indoor and outdoor settings. With careful application and regular maintenance, you can harness the full benefits of DE while keeping your home, garden, and pets safe and pest-free.

Leave a Comment