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Beekeeping | Wasp & Hornet treatment

End use application

Our Diatomaceous earth is:

  • high amorphous silica

  • lightweight powder form

  • mechanical pest control

  • physical desiccation

  • no risk of resistance

  • plant protection

  • increased plant yield

End use application as:

  • in-hive control for small hive beetle

  • treating wasp, hornets or bee nest 

  • microscopic abrasive shards cause death to insects with exoskeletons

  • scratching and piercing the waxy coating that covers the insect's bod

Our freshwater Diatomaceous earth (DE, diatomite, kieselguhr, celite, fossil shell flour) is 100% natural that is utilised by third party wholesalers, retailers and farmers in Australia:

  • plant growth

  • soil conditioning

  • pest control via mechanical desiccation

  • plant available silica

  • increased farming yields

  • reduce effects of drought

  • improve plant resistance

 

Natural product solutions potential

Image by James Wainscoat
Image by Kai Wenzel

How does it work?

There are numerous uses of diatomaceous earth. It has been known for controlling internal parasites, as a dewormer for pets, as pet and livestock protector against ticks and fleas, to prevent insects from entering your home, as an ingredient in toothpaste, for plant health, as a skin exfoliator, to preserve food, as a natural wasp killer and the list goes on and on.

Because of its many uses and benefits, it's a brilliant household product to have in your home. It’s great when you run into an issue—like having stinging, aggressive wasps too close to your home—and already having exactly what you need (a natural wasp killer) right in your cupboard.

In using diatomaceous earth, either as a pest control product, for health benefits or for any of these other uses listed above, we highly recommend the use of food-grade diatomaceous earth. Food-grade DE is a freshwater form of diatomite. It is safe, purified and has low levels of silica. It can be used around your home, your children and your pets. There is also filter-grade (or pool-grade), which is inedible but has many industrial uses.

How do I get rid of wasps with DE?
 

1. Getting rid of paper wasps, hornets and yellowjackets—and their nests—without being stung is possible if you remain calm and cautious. Wasps won’t generally sting unless they perceive a threat to their home, so move quietly and discreetly.

To further prevent wasp stings, consider suiting up. Use duct tape to secure your pant legs to your boots or socks and your sleeves to your gloves, and wear an extra layer of clothing, as wasp stingers can penetrate through one layer of clothing.

Follow these steps:

2. Locate areas: Find the areas in your yard where you traditionally have had wasp issues.
Time your approach: Wait until dawn or dusk when wasps are least active.

 

3. Apply DE: Fill duster with diatomaceous earth. Puff a light but thorough and direct dusting in and around the nest entrance. This applies to both ground nests and above-ground nests.
 

4. Monitor wasp activity: DE is not a chemical and does not lose potency or evaporate, maintaining effectiveness over several days. If needed, apply a second application after about a week. Reapply after heavy rainfall.

When applying DE powder, it's crucial to wear appropriate protective gear. I recommend gloves, long-sleeved shirts, pants and a mask to prevent skin and respiratory irritation. However, once the dust has settled, additional protective wear is not necessary. Remember, the effectiveness of diatomaceous earth extends well beyond the initial application, providing lasting protection against pests without the use of harsh chemicals.

abstract and full article link to Attapulgite clay & Diatomaceous earth agriculture | horticulture research

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