Vine borers - Ask Extension
Is using diatomaceous earth a good alternative to control vine borers?
If so, is this considered an organic solution? And are there any negative imp...
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Vine borers #875052
Asked June 28, 2024, 12:10 AM EDT
Is using diatomaceous earth a good alternative to control vine borers?
If so, is this considered an organic solution? And are there any negative impacts to the soil or to other (beneficial or benign) insects or animals?
Can diatomaceous earth sprayed plants be composted?
Thank you very much for your help,
Jennifer Sinclair
Carver County Minnesota
Expert Response
Diatomaceous earth is considered an organic solution but it is not selective.
It will affect soft insects like slugs, but is not very effective on hard insects like beetles. I have never heard of it being effective on squash borers.
It works best in dry climates because it causes the insects to dry out. Your vine borer are inside your squash vines so they will not come into contact with the diatomaceous earth.
Most people over-use it because it make them feel like they are doing something, but it is not really that effective.
https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-news/what-diatomaceous-earth
