Unfortunately, no, says Stuart Parkinson, University of Idaho extension educator. Flower bulbs rely very heavily on their leaves to channel energy to the bulb. This energy will be stored and used for next year's flower production. Do cut off spent flowers with a sharp knife as soon as they lose their beauty. An abrasive dust that ruptures the waxy, protective layer on the surface of insect skins, diatomaceous earth is made from the skeletons of microscopic marine organisms.
Damaged insects dry out and die.
If you're bothered by ants, try a light sprinkling of diatomaceous earth directly on their mounds or in their pathways, Stoltz says. You'll want to wear both a dust mask and goggles during application. Not only do grasscycling citizens save fertilizer, University of Idaho demonstrations indicate that they also slice a third off their mowing time. Contrary to popular fears, grasscycling isn't a thatch-maker, Rynk says. Clippings are 95 percent water and decompose too quickly to contribute to thatch.