Can Diatomaceous Earth (DE) dust be applied in sheds using leaf blowers and achieve adequate surface coverage? This trial found that with fine-tuned application techniques, coverage extended to all areas within the shed, meeting the intended objective.
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Two GRDC GroundCover articles exploring the importance of sealed grain storage systems and research investigating grain storage performance, pest management, and effective storage practices.
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This article outlines best practice for determining when to fumigate stored grain, highlighting the importance of cooling, monitoring, and gas-tight storage. It explains the risks of fumigating too early, relying on calendar-based treatments, and poor sealing, while reinforcing that effective fumigation depends on correct timing, temperature, and exposure periods.
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The stored grain extension team have put together some key resources on setting up and storing grain in bunkers. Rather than re-invent the wheel, useful information resources from commercial suppliers of bunker tarps and equipment has been included.
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Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential for health and safety when fumigating with phosphine.
The phosphine label mandates the use of a full-face respirator with a combination particulate (P1) and phosphine gas cartridge filter along with elbow-length rubber gloves to comply with label requirements.
In this episode of the GRDC podcast, Chris Warrick from the Stored Grain Extension Team shares the most important steps growers can take to protect grain quality and reduce storage risks.
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Phosphine remains the most widely used fumigant in Australia’s grain industry due to its effectiveness, low cost, and residue-free status. However, increasing resistance among key insect pests highlights the need for strict adherence to best practice guidelines.
This comprehensive manual outlines:
1. Proper application methods across different storage types (silos, bunkers, sheds)
2. Critical factors such as gas concentration, exposure time, temperature, and moisture
3. Equipment for monitoring gas levels and ensuring safe fumigant handling
4. Strategies to delay and manage resistance, including use of sulfuryl fluoride and integrated pest management
Compiled by leading experts including Dr Manoj Nayak, Dr Joanne Holloway, Chris Warrick, and Patrick Wilson, this document is a valuable resource for growers, storage operators, and advisors working to maintain grain quality and market access.
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Evaluating Application Methods for Diatomaceous Earth in Grain Storages
Originally published as Development Activity 2024-3 | Project Code: PRB2011-001SAX
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is an important structural treatment used to control storage pests in empty silos. This development activity compared dry application methods for distributing DE in both cone-bottom and flat-bottom silos, aiming to identify approaches that achieve the most uniform coverage across all silo surfaces.
Key Findings:
The 18v battery blower and petrol-powered leaf blower, used with a venturi attachment, provided more uniform distribution of DE than the benchmark compressed-air BloVac gun.
In the flat-bottom silo, ground-level application via access door resulted in consistent DE coverage at all levels – offering a safe and effective method.
Venturi-assisted delivery created a finer, more stable dust cloud, improving reach to upper silo sections.
Longer application time increased air circulation and dust suspension, enhancing coverage.
Recommendations:
Use battery or petrol-powered blowers with a homemade venturi (ideally a “Y” fitting with a half-diameter suction pipe) for optimal distribution.
Apply DE from ground level while moving the blower nozzle regularly to target all areas.
Maintain dust circulation during and after application to reach higher wall areas.
Future Work:
Further trials should refine blower application techniques and explore the use of DE in grain sheds.
Download the full report: Diatomaceous Earth Application – DA 2024-3 (PDF)
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Key points
– Rotating phosphine fumigation with sulfuryl fluoride will protect against the development of phosphine resistance
– Sulfuryl fluoride can only be purchased and applied by licensed fumigators
Outside fumigation, there is no need to seal a silo – in fact, sealing a silo for long periods increases the risk of grain degradation and silo damage
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