I purchased a bag of diatomaceous earth (food grade) for use in my garden. I just went to use it and it has a horrible odor! Wha

Question

t is going on? Purchased about 10 months ago from a local gardening shop. I kept the DE stored in my garden shed.

Answer 1

My research shows DE keeps indefinitely if kept clean. However, it is highly absorbant and absorbs any odors, liquids or contaminants that it is exposed to. Something may have gotten into your shed and left a foul odor that was absorbed. I wouldn't use it since you don't know what it has absorbed.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/garden-safe-diatomaceous-earth.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/diatomaceous-earth-insect-control.htm