Categories Information Farm Use

Farm Use

  • DIATOMITE (Diatomaceous Earth or “DE”) is a unique freshwater Diatomaceous earth source. Diatomite consists of the fossilized skeletal remains of microscopic single celled aquatic plants known as diatoms. These small plants developed a three-dimensional silicious shell like armour for protection, upon the death of these plants the fossil shells accumulated on the beds of these (FRESH) water lakes and compacted into lightweight porous rock, similar to glacial rock deposits.
  • Although Diatomaceous earth is found in many places around the world only a few Fresh water deposits are pure enough to be used as a horticultural growth promoting medium. Diatomite is composed primarily of Amorphous silicon dioxide(SILICA) containing almost no detectable crystallinity, in particular no cristobalite, tridymite or quartz were detectable, at detection limits of around 0.1%. With at least 15 other major, minor and trace elements, this 100% natural organic media is a biogenic source of silica as found in all life forms.
  • This rich source of plant available silica is documented to stimulate Self Acquired Resistance (SAR) in plants increasing their resistance to disease. Studies show the slow release of soluble silica promotes, stronger, healthier, higher yielding plants that can mature more quickly. This is the only growing medium that energizes and actually feeds your plants.
  • In it's non-crystalline form, Diatomite is a non-toxic, non-hazardous and environmentally friendly media. Our product is sterilized during processing so it will not swell, expand or contract and acts as an efficient thermal insulator.
  • Lightweight and highly absorbent Diatomite can absorb up to 150% of its own weight in water and nutrient, and releases it back to the plant as required. It minimizes leaching and run-off and significantly reduces watering.
  • Diatomite provides excellent lateral movement of water and nutrient throughout the media, it insulates, aerates and promotes capillary action and because it is multi-faceted, air is able to penetrate to the plants root zone without difficulty.
  • The PH of Diatomite is about 5.7 and has an electrical conductivity EC of 0.05 mS/cm, indicating little or no salt content making it an excellent growing medium for all plants. Diatomite can be used as a 100% hydroponics growing medium, and/or can be added to any other growing medium as well. (eg. soilless mixes, coco fibre, etc.)
  • Diatomite recycles as an excellent ground cover mulch which enhances aesthetic presentation without the decay which happens with barks and mulch ground covers. Diatomite when applied dry is a proven non-chemical, environmentally safe pest control.
  • From orchids to grapes, all greenhouse vegetables and fruit Diatomite provides an inexpensive, lightweight quality growing media for any horticultural need.

 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING DIATOMITE?

High Silica Content Silica is essential for healthy plants and roots. WhileDIATOMITE is approximately 85% insoluble Silica, it contains a small but significant portion that is SOLUBLE SILICA. Silica is essential for healthy plants and roots. Your plants will receive from DIATOMITE a slow release of silica resulting in healthier, more robust plants. Plant available silica has been shown in studies to stimulateSYSTEMIC ACQUIRED RESISTANCE (SAR) in plants which increases their resistance to disease.
Absorbency & Porosity Diatomaceous Earth is naturally very porous, and can hold 150% of its weight in water. The Silica Content, natural Absorbency, and Porous qualities result in a slow release of water and nutrients to your plants, contributing to higher yields and less watering.
Capillary Action & Lateral Movement The porosity of the DIATOMITE contributes to its ability to draw water, while moving water and nutrients laterally throughout the medium, making Diatomaceous Earthideal for Hydroponics!
Air Penetration Diatomaceous Earth is multifaceted and varies in size because each rock is unique in shape it does not compact while in the pot. This leaves pockets, allowing air to penetrate and circulate to the root zone.
Sterilized, Non-Toxic, pH Neutral When DIATOMITE is mined it is heat treated to over 600 degrees Celsius, making it completely sterile and safe for all of your planting needs. Whether you are using 100%DIATOMITE or you are adding it to a mix of your soil it will not contribute to changes in pH.
Environmentally Friendly Diatomaceous Earth is a fossil, making it natural, safe and an Environmentally conscious alternative. We have visited the mine in Australia, and we are confident that the practices used to mine our product are safe and in accordance with Australian environmental guidelines.
Long Lasting, Natural
& Reusable
Diatomaceous Earth is inert and will not break down or decompose like other growing mediums. It is Natural and completely reusable. When dry, Diatomaceous Earth is extremely lightweight, making it ideal for plant shipping purposes. Because it is Reusable and Long Lasting it is economical and cost effective for long term use.