What is Silica, Diatomite or Diatomaceous Earth?
What is Diatomite ~ Diatomaceous Earth? One of the ten most abundant elements in our universe and the second most abundant element on the planet. Diatomite - Silica is a naturally occurring, soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that is easily crumbled into a fine white to off-white powder. (Wikipedia) Depending on the granularity, this powder can have an abrasive feel.
Diatomaceous Earth (Wikipedia)consists of fossilized remains of Diatoms, a type of hard shelled algae. It is used as a filtration aid, mild abrasive in products including metal polishes and toothpaste, mechanical insecticide, absorbent for liquids, matting agent for coatings, cat litter and many other useful areas.
Diatomaceous Earth comes in several formats:
- Granulated is diatomaceous earth is the raw material simply crushed
- Milled or micronized diatomaceous earth is especially fine and used for insecticides etc
- Calcined diatomaceous earth is heat-treated and activated for filters.
Each deposit of diatomaceous earth is different, with varying blends of pure diatomaceous earth combined with other natural clays and minerals. The diatoms in each deposit contain different amounts of silica, depending on the age of the deposit. The species of diatom may also differ among deposits. The species of diatom is dependent upon the age and paleo-environment of the deposit. In turn, the shape of a diatom is determined by its species.(Wikipedia)
Images of Diatomite under a microscope
Benefits of using Diatomite ~ Silica in agriculture
PN using the right technology has a significant and beneficial impact on current farming processes incorporating the natural occurring elements of Diatomite - Silica. Benefiting soil, water and the growth of crops. Many of the farming practises of today has destroyed the fragile balance of our soil and plants in agriculture.
Increasing resistance to pathogens and insects, which are normally treated with chemicals. Increasing resistance to strong wind and rain, by producing stronger roots and plants.
Alleviate many deficiencies and reducing stress from salt, drought and toxicity.
Enhancing growth and yield of annual and vegetable crops promoting much stronger upright growth and provides resistance to many fungal and bacterial diseases.
Using Diatomite-Silica in an effective management program provides the plant with reinforcements to protect itself against insect and disease attacks, by growing stronger cell walls thereby making it harder for a fungal pathogen to drill through to tap into the nutritious cells within, not allowing the pathogen to feed on the food source and spreading a disease. Stops the disease in its tracks. There have been many published papers, confirming the ongoing potential and exciting news using this natural product to combat disease and insects without the added degeneration caused by the use of chemicals.
