When it comes to growing healthy food at Stoney Creek Farm, we’re all about avoiding the use of harmful pesticides. Whether it’s attracting and keeping beneficial insects, building natural wildlife deterrents, or repurposing rainwater for our gardens, we believe in living in a sustainable way—for our wallets AND for our earth.
One non-harmful option for keeping those bad bugs at bay is diatomaceous earth.
While diatomaceous earth may be the arch nemesis of destructive insects, it is completely safe for humans, pets, and the earth!
What exactly is diatomaceous earth?
Diatomaceous earth is made up of tiny fossilized aquatic organisms. Because it doesn’t rely on poison to kill bugs, it’s not harmful to you or your pets!
You can learn more of the nitty gritty science of diatomaceous earth here.
So how does it kill bugs, then?
Diatomaceous earth has tiny, sharp edges that cut open the exoskeletons of insects and absorb the oils and fats, drying out the bug and subsequently killing it.
Bad news for bugs, but great for us!
How do you use it?
At Stoney Creek Farm, we use diatomaceous earth for several purposes:
- To prevent cutworms on tomatoes
- Help control squash bugs
- Keep ladybugs out of the house by creating a barrier around our home
- And so much more!
Diatomaceous earth is used against a plethora of pests, from roaches, crickets, fleas, ants, ticks, and more—anything with an exoskeleton is at the mercy of this natural pest killer.
We personally use the brand Perma Guard—it’s food grade, consistent quality, and we’ve seen great results!
Diatomaceous earth can be applied directly to your lawn, garden, or perimeter of your home. Here’s an easy step-by-step guide to applying it!
Sustainable Consulting
Did you know that we provide sustainable consulting services?
If you are looking for personalized guidance for your farm, homestead, plot of land, or backyard garden, Olin and I use our combined contracting and garden & farming skills to offer you suggestions unique to your property, desires, abilities, and budget.
Some of our consulting clients include:
- A 7 acre-farm in Tennessee that we recommended developing for U-Pick destination farming
- A 3 acre-property that we recommended using as a flower bouquet business
- A local elementary school that created a garden for student learning purposes
To learn how your property can sustainably serve you and your family, email Leigh at stoneycreekfarmtennessee@gmail.com to book your sustainable living consultation.
