Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a naturally occurring sedimentary rock formed from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. When mined, milled, and dried, it becomes a fine powder with microscopic sharp edges. Food-grade DE — like TerraGuard — is safe for animals and humans while being highly effective against soft-bodied insects and pests.

Yes. TerraGuard is food-grade diatomaceous earth, which means it is safe for direct contact with poultry, including laying hens and broilers. Birds naturally dust-bathe in DE and can have it mixed into their feed. It poses no toxicity risk to birds, humans, or pets when used as directed. We always recommend avoiding heavy inhalation of any fine dust — apply in well-ventilated conditions.

Filter-grade (or pool-grade) DE is heat-treated and chemically processed, converting its silica into crystalline form which is harmful to breathe and toxic to animals. Food-grade DE, like TerraGuard DE, contains amorphous silica and is completely safe for use around animals and in agricultural settings. Always ensure you are using food-grade DE around your flock — never pool-grade.

TerraGuard DE is a natural pest control solution made from diatomaceous earth. It works by physically damaging pests’ exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die—without using chemicals.

Simply sprinkle TerraGuard DE in chicken coops, nesting boxes, and dust baths. Reapply after heavy rain or cleaning for best results.

Absolutely! TerraGuard DE complements other natural and organic pest management strategies for a holistic approach.

Dust TerraGuard lightly and evenly across bedding, nesting boxes, perches, and the floor of your coop. Focus on cracks and crevices where mites and lice tend to shelter during the day. For dust baths, mix DE into the dust bathing area at a ratio of roughly 1 part DE to 3 parts fine soil or sand. Reapply after cleaning, after heavy rain, or every 2–4 weeks as part of a regular management routine.

TerraGuard DE loses effectiveness when it becomes wet. In dry conditions, a single application can remain effective for several weeks. We recommend reapplying every 2–4 weeks in typical conditions, and after any deep clean of the coop. In humid climates or during wet seasons, you may need to apply more frequently. The key is keeping the DE dry — if it clumps, it’s time to reapply.

Yes, TerraGuard DE is EPA certified through an active EPA registration number, meaning it has been reviewed and approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for specific pesticidal uses in agricultural and poultry facilities. This registration confirms that TerraGuard DE meets federal requirements for safety and labeled use when applied according to the product label.

Yes, TerraGuard DE is OMRI-listed, meaning it has been reviewed and approved by the Organic Materials Review Institute for use in certified organic production and handling. This certification confirms that TerraGuard DE meets strict organic standards and can be legally used by organic poultry and agricultural operations in accordance with OMRI guidelines and the product label.

TerraGuard DE is derived from natural mineral sources and contains no synthetic additives or chemical treatments. It is generally considered compatible with organic farming standards. However, certification requirements vary by certifying body and region. We recommend confirming with your specific certifier before use, and we can provide full ingredient and sourcing documentation upon request.

No. Because TerraGuard DE works mechanically rather than chemically, there is no withholding period required for eggs or meat production. Your flock can continue laying and your birds remain market-ready throughout use. This is one of the key advantages of DE over conventional chemical pest treatments.

Yes! TerraGuard is available in a range of pack sizes to suit operations of all scales — from small backyard flocks to large commercial free-range farms. Bulk pricing and volume discounts are available. Contact us directly to discuss your flock size and we’ll find the most cost-effective supply arrangement for your operation.

Absolutely. We’re confident in TerraGuard and we want you to be too. Use the contact form on our Contact page to request a free sample — simply tell us a bit about your operation and flock size and we’ll get one out to you. We believe the results speak for themselves.