Yolky Posted June 22, 2008 Share Posted June 22, 2008 I was looking at a site that has diatom earth on it and so I was going to buy a 500g box of it, thought that should last a while. I was wondering if I really need the red mite powder as well, especially as the new eglus have plastic bars? Also does the diatom earth smell nice like I have heard the red mite powder does? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
christmasoompa Posted June 22, 2008 Share Posted June 22, 2008 I've no idea but good question, I've been wondering the same myself so thanks for asking it! Will be interested to see others answers. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
superjules Posted June 22, 2008 Share Posted June 22, 2008 I only use diatom (fab stuff), although I know others use both. My wooden henhouse is probably the most poorly designed in the history of keeping chickens, in terms of hiding places for mite, and I've never seen one so Diatom must work well. I've got a 5k tub because it works out a lot cheaper and it's not like it's perishable, but then I'm probably more liberal with it as a result. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gamebird Posted June 22, 2008 Share Posted June 22, 2008 I put diatom earth in their dust bath areas so they cover themselves with it and sprinkle red mite powder in the nesting box and perch ends. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mayflower Posted June 22, 2008 Share Posted June 22, 2008 I squeeze some of the diatem earth into their food supply. It is made from fossils and supposed to prevent worms in hen's guts. Be careful that you do'nt breathe in the contents. Also, I squeeze the powder into the food supply and allow the powder to settle, as it can cause respiritory problems if used in excess. The red mite powder is for sprinkling onto the hen....under wings, around vent, in the nest box and where they dust bathe. This is to prevent red mite infestation. Hope this is helpful. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mdp1673 Posted June 23, 2008 Share Posted June 23, 2008 If you get a major red mite infestation the only thing I've found that works is this stuff http://www.solwayfeeders.com/productsdetail1.asp?STOCK_CODE=3293 Tried everything else (pressure washing, blowtorch, diatom and red mite powder) and nothing worked till i used this Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mutrix Farmers Posted June 23, 2008 Share Posted June 23, 2008 I put diatom earth in their dust bath areas so they cover themselves with it and sprinkle red mite powder in the nesting box and perch ends. Me too!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
