Many times, the person who grows their own food, does so because they want the taste that comes from fresh, handpicked food. It helps that we can choose varieties that have not had texture and taste compromised in order to be able to ship food vast distances. Of course, watching our vegetables disappear to uncontrolled insect infestations is not our goal.
One of the most effective insect controls happens to be organic. In fact, it is so safe that we eat it unknowingly. There is a natural occurring product that is approved by the USDA to be used in our grain storage bins for the control of insects. They feel it is so safe that the product does not have to be washed off our grains before bread is made.
That product is diatomaceous earth.
I doubt that you will find it on the shelf of any store. Most of our
insect control products are made by chemical and oil companies which
generates a tremendous profit. Why use a natural occurring product
that is effective and has a low profit margin?
Diatomaceous earth can be used on pet for pest control and we use it at the farm for worming our sheep.
One source for small quantities is Nitron's. They also have an applicator called a Dustin Mizer at a reasonable price which will more than pay for itself by allowing you to apply only as much as needed. If you have a large operation, then you can get a 50# bag from Welter Seed and Honey
If you have other suggestions, then click on the comment at the bottom of this post and add your information.
Pete
Welter seed and honey at Onslow Ia (welterseed.com) has diatomaceous earth for$23.50 per 50 lb bag. Located close to Cedar Rapids Ia
pete
Posted by: Pete | 01/15/2009 at 02:02 PM
Swimming pool diatomaceous earth has been processed to a different state and is not food grade and as I understand it, it is dangerous for human comsumption. For large quantities, I can get it from Iowa for around 30 dollars per 50 pounds(I will have to double check this)and it will go a long way. I feed it to my sheep for worm control and is effective on all worms, not just certain worms as drenching for controls. There is a dust mister that is very effective for spreading and makes it go a long way
pete
Posted by: Pete | 01/14/2009 at 10:44 AM
Diatomaceous earth is also used in swimming pool filters and can be a source for large quantities.
(Swimming pool supplies)
Posted by: Richard Faris | 01/14/2009 at 04:41 AM