Diatomaceous earth works as a natural pest control, soil amendment, deodorizer, and more.

What is diatomaceous earth?

If its applied to plant flowers, it can harm bees, butterflies, andother beneficial insects.

jar of diatomaceous earth next to lettuce seedlings growing in soil

Credit:Helin Loik-Tomson / Getty Images

Many gardeners apply DE powder by hand, but its even easier to spread with a DE applicator.

Wet app

If you better apply DE to hard-to-reach spots like the underside of plant leaves, add water.

To make your own DE mixture, blend 12 gallon of water with 1 cup of DE powder.

Since DE is highly absorbent, it holds onto the essential oils and makes them easier to apply.

However, this treatment strategy should not be used in areas where pets are active.

However,compost can also be used in this mannerand is even more cost-effective and earthworm-friendly.