Mica-What is White Kaolin Clay in Agriculture?

What is White Kaolin Clay in Agriculture?

Agricultural Kaolin is  a type of white clay that, thanks to its special characteristics, has a multitude of uses in different areas. Among them we highlight its usefulness in agriculture: it provides a layer of protection against ultraviolet rays and controls pests that affect crops and decorative plants. It stands out for its  purity, white color  and its  easy dispersion in water , making it an ideal product to spray and attack aerial pests (flies, mosquitoes). Here you can buy 100% pure and natural kaolin  from the Bioky brand, especially recommended for small-scale agriculture and crops.

Specifically, kaolin is an aluminum silicate, a soft, plastic clay, composed of fine-grained lamellar particles. Its texture is a  very fine micronized powder  that makes it easy to apply. Thanks to its benefits, it is a product that is booming and offers a large number of benefits, both for obtaining safe raw materials and for guaranteeing the production of organic crops.

At a regulatory level, according to Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council , kaolin (aluminum silicate) is considered a conventional and low-risk active substance . Its function is as an insect repellent . In addition, this product can be applied for phytosanitary protection in the field of Organic Agriculture, as dictated by Implementing Regulation 2021/1165 .

Uses of Kaolin in Agriculture

Kaolin is a natural and sustainable option for protecting crops against certain pests and ultraviolet rays . Mainly, white kaolin clay is used in olive crops , thanks to its effectiveness in eliminating the  whitefly typical of this type of crop.  Likewise, as we have already mentioned previously, it can be used in any type of crop or ornamental plant.

Kaolin as a pest and insect repellent

First of all, kaolin (either used dry or dissolved in water) is an ideal option to  eliminate and repel pests . It especially treats aerial pests: mosquitoes, flies, pear psylla, tryps, green almond flies, among many others. Its use is especially recommended to repel the olive fly .

By covering crops with this clay, insects are unable to find the fruit and stop attacking the plants. This is because kaolin creates a protective barrier that inhibits insects from settling on stems and leaves.

Kaolin: a sunscreen for plants

Among the properties of kaolin, we find its refreshing qualities . It is an effective product against ultraviolet radiation as it creates a protective film that refracts the sun's rays . Prevents burns and other consequences caused by high temperatures such as excessive perspiration of the leaves.

In addition, it is a perfect product to protect plants against  water stress , thanks to its high moisture absorption and adhesive properties. In this way, you will avoid its consequences such as decreased plant growth or reduced photosynthetic activity .

For all this, it is an ideal option to protect crops in  times of drought , heat waves, or simply in the summer season. You will get more productive crops and healthier plants.

Other benefits of using Agricultural Kaolin

Kaolin is not only beneficial for treating pests and protecting against the sun. It is highly valued in Organic Agriculture since we find a wide series of advantages derived from its use. In general, it does not affect beneficial insects for crops, it provides nutrients to plants and  corrects  soil deficiencies . The result is increased resistance to make it more difficult for pests and insects to attack, greater performance  and health for the planet and people.

• Bioky's Kaolin for Agriculture acts as a pest controller against insects that are harmful to obtaining fruits,  respecting those that are beneficial .
• It allows the plant to develop defenses to attack and survive pests. In addition to  providing essential nutrients to the soil , which gives it a higher productive level.
• It is  harmless to animals . We can use agricultural kaolin without a problem if we have animals since it does not pose any risk to their health, whether they are farm animals or domestic animals.
• Finally, the use of organic agricultural kaolin is a sustainable option, which  guarantees the health  of crops, the environment and people. Avoid exposing soil to pesticides and chemical agents.

Dosage and forms of use of Bioky Agricultural Kaolin

Depending on the purpose of the treatment, Kaolin can be sprinkled on plants or diluted to apply through irrigation or spraying.

In the case of  sunscreen , the product can be applied manually. Sprinkle directly on plants to create a thin film of clay on leaves, stems and fruits. Likewise, it can also be used in this way to control certain terrestrial pests.

To attack aerial pests, Agriculture Kaolin must be diluted in water, in  a proportion of 40-50gr/L . Subsequently, it is sprayed homogeneously on the leaves, stems or directly on the insects. As it is a 100% natural product, it can be combined with other types of products to  increase its effectiveness , such as  diatomaceous earth . It is advisable to apply it every 15 days, although the frequency can be increased if necessary.

We recommend the use of a dust mask if you continually handle this product and are exposed to it.

Compatibility of Kaolin with other products

As it is a safe and sustainable product, it is possible to combine clay with other natural products:  diatomaceous earth,  black soap  and  neem oil , among others. Depending on the needs of the crops and the characteristics of the environment, it is recommended to combine them with one or other products.

In short, white clay is a versatile product that is also beneficial for the environment. It can be used without any risk to people and animals, and can be combined with other products. It is aimed at agricultural use , at ECO Diatomaceous Earth we do not recommend its human consumption.