Diatamaceous Earth
 

Anybody try DE on their orchids. Heard great things for arthropod control. An article says it kills the bugs and some use it in soil for holding water and later releasing it. Just wandered if anybody has tried this with their orchids. I have a fairly large collection and am struggling with spiders. I might try this let me know if anyone has experience with DE. Thanks!!

People here have written about it. Use the Search feature in the top maroon menu to find the threads.

Note that it's spelled diatomaceous. You probably won't find it otherwise.

I've used it for non-plant pest applications, and it works fine so long as it stays dry. Once it gets wet, it's no longer effective for pest management.

Only use the food grade and wear a well-fitting mask when you're using it.

I've added it to traditional potting mix in dry storage to keep ants from living in it. I didn't notice any additional benefits from having it in the mix once we used the potting soil.

i use it

not in any pots but around some areas

it does melt and become messy once wet but it is still somewhat effective.

i use a flour/powdered sugar sifter to place it and i surround my whole house a few times a year. it kills anything with an exo-skeleton so be careful as it doesnt know a helpful spider from a harmful roach.