Is diatomaceous earth harmful to earthworms?

Question

I have a problem with biting and stinging ants in my vegetable garden but I don't want to harm the beneficial earthworms in it.

Answer 1

i think it's supposed to be better for them

Answer 2

Diatomaceous earth is composed of the microscopic glass shells of sea diatoms. It will not cause harm to worms.  Here is a link to read more about how to use it  for insect control. http://www.dirtdoctor.com/view_question....

Answer 3

Yes it will kill the worms, if the crawl through it.

The best application is to spread it around and over the ant mounds.

Spreading a 2-3 inch band around the base of plants is also helpful against ants, but this only works as long as no other part of the plant touches the ground. Ants can crawl up the leaves as easily as the stem.

Diatamaceous Earth works by clogging the pores that insects breath through. The benefit far out weighs the small number of worms that might be killed. Applications should be  made when the ground is dry as DE will absorb water.  Take caution when spreading, DE contains silica dust this, can be harmful to the lungs.

Answer 4

Yeah, you should see a worm specialist STAT! You could be killing the little wormies!