Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a naturally occurring, fine powder made from the fossilised remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms.
At Tasman Feed & Forage, I stock food grade Diatomaceous Earth — a versatile, chemical-free solution trusted by backyard keepers and farmers alike for livestock, poultry, and pets.
BENEFITS
Diatomaceous Earth works mechanically, not chemically, making it a natural and residue-free choice for animal care and around the home.
Natural insect & parasite control — the fine silica particles damage the exoskeleton of insects and external parasites, causing them to dehydrate. Effective against mites, lice, fleas, ants, and crawling insects.
Poultry dust bathing — when added to a dust bath, DE helps chickens and other birds manage mites and lice naturally.
Internal parasite support — food grade DE can be added to animal feed to help manage intestinal worms as part of a broader management plan.
Rich in silica — a naturally occurring mineral that supports healthy skin, coat, feathers, and hooves.
Chemical-free & non-toxic — safe to use around children, animals, and in garden and feed areas when used as directed.
Versatile around the home & farm — effective as a natural crawling insect barrier in coops, stables, kennels, and pantries.
HOW TO USE
For poultry & livestock (external use):
Dust lightly over the coat, feathers, or bedding. Work the powder down toward the skin, avoiding the eyes and nostrils. Apply to coop floors, nesting boxes, and bedding to help control mites and lice in the environment.
For poultry & livestock (internal use):
Mix food grade DE into feed at a rate of approximately 2% of total feed volume. For example, mix 20g of DE per 1kg of feed. Offer consistently over several weeks as part of a worm management routine. Always ensure fresh water is available.
For dogs & cats:
Sprinkle lightly into coat and work toward skin for flea control. For internal use, add a small amount to food — approximately 1 teaspoon per day for small dogs/cats and up to 1 tablespoon for large dogs. Consult your vet for specific guidance.
Around the home & garden:
Sprinkle along skirting boards, entry points, and around plant bases as a crawling insect deterrent. Reapply after rain or moisture exposure.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry location away from moisture — DE loses effectiveness when wet, though it will reactivate once fully dried.
Keep the bag sealed between uses to prevent clumping.
Store away from direct sunlight.
Keep out of reach of children and pets when not in use.
Shelf life is indefinite when stored correctly in dry conditions.
CAUTIONS & IMPORTANT NOTES
Always use FOOD GRADE Diatomaceous Earth only. Pool or filter grade DE has been heat-treated and is not safe for animals or humans.
Avoid breathing in the dust. Although food grade DE is non-toxic, the fine particles can irritate the lungs if inhaled. Wear a dust mask when applying large quantities.
Avoid contact with eyes and nostrils of both yourself and your animals during application.
DE is not a standalone worming treatment. It is best used as a supportive tool alongside a veterinarian-recommended parasite management program, particularly for heavy worm burdens.
Effectiveness as an insecticide is reduced in humid or wet conditions — ensure application areas are as dry as possible.
Not for use in beehives, as it can harm bees.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a naturally occurring, fine powder made from the fossilised remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms.
At Tasman Feed & Forage, I stock food grade Diatomaceous Earth — a versatile, chemical-free solution trusted by backyard keepers and farmers alike for livestock, poultry, and pets.
BENEFITS
Diatomaceous Earth works mechanically, not chemically, making it a natural and residue-free choice for animal care and around the home.
Natural insect & parasite control — the fine silica particles damage the exoskeleton of insects and external parasites, causing them to dehydrate. Effective against mites, lice, fleas, ants, and crawling insects.
Poultry dust bathing — when added to a dust bath, DE helps chickens and other birds manage mites and lice naturally.
Internal parasite support — food grade DE can be added to animal feed to help manage intestinal worms as part of a broader management plan.
Rich in silica — a naturally occurring mineral that supports healthy skin, coat, feathers, and hooves.
Chemical-free & non-toxic — safe to use around children, animals, and in garden and feed areas when used as directed.
Versatile around the home & farm — effective as a natural crawling insect barrier in coops, stables, kennels, and pantries.
HOW TO USE
For poultry & livestock (external use):
Dust lightly over the coat, feathers, or bedding. Work the powder down toward the skin, avoiding the eyes and nostrils. Apply to coop floors, nesting boxes, and bedding to help control mites and lice in the environment.
For poultry & livestock (internal use):
Mix food grade DE into feed at a rate of approximately 2% of total feed volume. For example, mix 20g of DE per 1kg of feed. Offer consistently over several weeks as part of a worm management routine. Always ensure fresh water is available.
For dogs & cats:
Sprinkle lightly into coat and work toward skin for flea control. For internal use, add a small amount to food — approximately 1 teaspoon per day for small dogs/cats and up to 1 tablespoon for large dogs. Consult your vet for specific guidance.
Around the home & garden:
Sprinkle along skirting boards, entry points, and around plant bases as a crawling insect deterrent. Reapply after rain or moisture exposure.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry location away from moisture — DE loses effectiveness when wet, though it will reactivate once fully dried.
Keep the bag sealed between uses to prevent clumping.
Store away from direct sunlight.
Keep out of reach of children and pets when not in use.
Shelf life is indefinite when stored correctly in dry conditions.
CAUTIONS & IMPORTANT NOTES
Always use FOOD GRADE Diatomaceous Earth only. Pool or filter grade DE has been heat-treated and is not safe for animals or humans.
Avoid breathing in the dust. Although food grade DE is non-toxic, the fine particles can irritate the lungs if inhaled. Wear a dust mask when applying large quantities.
Avoid contact with eyes and nostrils of both yourself and your animals during application.
DE is not a standalone worming treatment. It is best used as a supportive tool alongside a veterinarian-recommended parasite management program, particularly for heavy worm burdens.
Effectiveness as an insecticide is reduced in humid or wet conditions — ensure application areas are as dry as possible.
Not for use in beehives, as it can harm bees.
