Diatomaceous Earth for Plant Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Powder Type, Granules Type) , Applications (Functional Additives, Absorbents, Others) and Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Diatomaceous Earth for Plant market Size

The global Diatomaceous Earth for Plant market was valued at USD 1,230 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 1,297.65 million in 2025, growing to USD 2,024.85 million by 2033, at a CAGR of 5.5% during the forecast period (2025–2033).

The US Diatomaceous Earth for Plant market is anticipated to lead growth, supported by its widespread use in agriculture for pest control and soil conditioning. Globally, the rising demand for organic and eco-friendly farming inputs is driving market expansion.

Diatomaceous earth, a naturally occurring sedimentary rock composed of fossilized diatoms, has gained widespread adoption in agriculture due to its organic and eco-friendly benefits. The rising preference for sustainable and organic farming has propelled its demand, with over 65% of organic farmers using it as a natural pesticide.

The agricultural sector dominates the application segment, contributing to more than 50% of the total market share. Additionally, over 40% of horticulturists utilize diatomaceous earth to enhance soil aeration and moisture retention. The increasing trend of chemical-free farming has driven the market’s expansion, with a projected increase in demand of over 30% in the next five years.

Diatomaceous Earth for Plant Market Trends

The diatomaceous earth for plant market is experiencing rapid growth due to increased organic farming practices and consumer preference for chemical-free products. More than 70% of organic farmers now use diatomaceous earth as a natural pesticide, reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals. Additionally, the growing awareness of soil health improvement has led to over 55% of agriculturalists incorporating diatomaceous earth into soil conditioning.

The horticulture sector has also seen a rise in its usage, with more than 45% of greenhouse cultivators opting for it to control pests. The accessibility of diatomaceous earth has expanded significantly, with over 60% of purchases now occurring through online platforms and agricultural supply stores. Wet application methods have also gained traction, with more than 35% of farmers adopting them for improved efficiency.

The market is also witnessing innovations in product formulations, with over 50% of suppliers now offering ultra-fine diatomaceous earth for enhanced application. With over 40% of crop failures linked to pest-related issues, the adoption of diatomaceous earth as a sustainable solution continues to grow. Furthermore, more than 30% of agricultural research institutions are now focusing on optimizing diatomaceous earth-based soil enhancers for increased efficiency.

Diatomaceous Earth for Plant Market Dynamics

The diatomaceous earth for plant market is influenced by shifting agricultural practices, increasing organic farming demand, and growing concerns about chemical pesticides. Over 80% of farmers prefer sustainable alternatives, driving the expansion of diatomaceous earth usage. However, challenges such as lack of awareness and competition from chemical pesticides persist. Nonetheless, more than 50% of governments worldwide are encouraging the use of natural pesticides, further boosting the market.

Driver

"Increasing Preference for Organic Farming Practices"

The global shift towards organic farming has fueled the demand for diatomaceous earth, with over 75% of organic farms integrating it into their pest control strategies. This shift is further supported by consumer demand, with more than 65% of buyers preferring organic produce. Additionally, government regulations promoting sustainable agriculture have led to over 40% of subsidies being directed toward organic farming solutions, including diatomaceous earth. More than 50% of organic certification programs now recommend diatomaceous earth as an approved natural pesticide.

"Restraint"

"Limited Awareness and Availability in Certain Regions"

Despite its benefits, the adoption of diatomaceous earth is restricted due to low awareness, with over 35% of farmers still relying on chemical pesticides due to a lack of knowledge about alternatives. Additionally, more than 30% of rural agricultural supply chains do not stock diatomaceous earth, limiting accessibility. The knowledge gap remains a challenge, as over 40% of small-scale farmers have never used diatomaceous earth. Expanding educational initiatives and improving supply chain networks will be crucial to overcoming this restraint.

Opportunity

"Expansion of Distribution Channels and Product Innovations"

The availability of diatomaceous earth has improved significantly, with over 60% of sales now occurring through online marketplaces. Increased R&D has led to product innovations, with more than 45% of manufacturers developing enhanced formulations for better soil absorption and pest control. The integration of diatomaceous earth into sustainable agriculture programs has also gained traction, with over 55% of agricultural sustainability initiatives promoting its usage. Moreover, partnerships with large-scale organic farming organizations have increased its market penetration, with over 50% of major organic farms adopting diatomaceous earth-based solutions.

"Challenge"

"Competition from Alternative Pest Control Methods"

Despite its benefits, diatomaceous earth faces competition from other organic pest control solutions, with more than 40% of organic farmers opting for neem-based pesticides or companion planting techniques. Additionally, the effectiveness of diatomaceous earth can be influenced by environmental conditions, leading over 30% of users to seek supplementary pest control methods. The lack of standardized guidelines for application has also created inconsistencies, with over 25% of farmers reporting varied efficacy. Addressing these challenges through improved formulations and better user education will be critical for market growth.

Segmentation Analysis

The diatomaceous earth for plant market is segmented based on type and application, with each category catering to specific agricultural needs. The powder type dominates with over 65% market share, while granular variants are gaining traction with more than 35% adoption. Regarding applications, functional additives account for over 50%, followed by absorbents at more than 30% and other uses contributing over 20% of the total demand.

By Type

• Powder Type: The powdered form holds over 65% of the market share, primarily due to its superior pest control efficiency. More than 70% of organic farmers prefer the powder type for direct application on crops. The fine texture enables rapid absorption of lipids from insect exoskeletons, making it an effective insecticide. Furthermore, over 55% of horticulturists use powdered diatomaceous earth for soil amendments due to its ability to improve aeration and moisture retention.
• Granules Type: Granular diatomaceous earth accounts for more than 35% of the market, primarily used in large-scale agricultural applications. Over 45% of commercial farms adopt granules for soil conditioning, as they facilitate better water retention. More than 40% of distributors report increased demand for granules in areas where wind dispersion is a concern, making it a preferred alternative to powdered variants.

By Application

• Functional Additives: Functional additives lead the application segment, contributing over 50% of the total demand. Diatomaceous earth is used in fertilizers and soil conditioners, with more than 60% of organic farms integrating it into their crop nutrition programs. Additionally, over 55% of livestock farmers use it as a feed additive to improve gut health and parasite control.
• Absorbents: Absorbent applications account for more than 30% of total usage, particularly in water management and soil amendments. Over 50% of greenhouse cultivators use diatomaceous earth to regulate moisture levels. Furthermore, more than 45% of agricultural research institutions are conducting studies on its enhanced absorbency properties to improve soil sustainability.
• Others: The miscellaneous applications category makes up over 20% of total market consumption. More than 35% of seed storage facilities utilize diatomaceous earth to protect against pests. Over 30% of composting units incorporate it for odor control and pest deterrence. Additionally, more than 25% of hydroponic growers use it in nutrient solutions to enhance root growth.

Diatomaceous Earth for Plant Market Regional Outlook

The demand for diatomaceous earth varies by region, with North America leading with over 40% market share, followed by Europe at more than 30%, Asia-Pacific exceeding 20%, and the Middle East & Africa contributing over 10%.

North America

North America holds over 40% of the global diatomaceous earth for plant market, driven by high adoption rates in organic farming. More than 75% of organic farms in the U.S. and Canada use diatomaceous earth for pest control. Additionally, over 65% of agricultural supply stores in the region report increasing sales of natural insecticides, with diatomaceous earth among the top-selling products. Online sales have surged, with more than 50% of purchases occurring through e-commerce platforms.

Europe

Europe contributes more than 30% of the total market, with over 70% of organic-certified farms utilizing diatomaceous earth. The European Union's strict pesticide regulations have led to over 60% of organic farmers adopting it as a primary pest control solution. Furthermore, more than 55% of soil amendment companies in the region have incorporated diatomaceous earth into their product lines.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific accounts for over 20% of global consumption, with rapid growth in countries such as China, India, and Japan. More than 50% of organic farming initiatives in the region include diatomaceous earth as a recommended pest control method. Additionally, over 45% of government-backed agricultural sustainability programs in Asia promote its usage. The market is expanding due to increasing awareness, with more than 40% of agricultural supply chains now offering diatomaceous earth-based products.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region contributes over 10% to the market, with growing interest in sustainable farming. More than 35% of large-scale farms in South Africa and the UAE have adopted diatomaceous earth for soil improvement. Additionally, over 30% of pest control solutions in organic farming across the region now incorporate diatomaceous earth. Limited awareness remains a challenge, but more than 25% of agricultural awareness campaigns focus on promoting natural alternatives like diatomaceous earth.

List of Key Diatomaceous Earth for Plant Market Companies Profiled

• Imerys
• EP Minerals
• Showa Chemical
• CECA Chemical
• Dicaperl
• Diatomite CJSC
• American Diatomite
• Jilin Yuan Tong Mineral
• Chanye
• Zhilan Diatom
• Sanxing Diatomite
• Shengzhou Xinglong Products of Diatomite
• Shengzhou Huali Diatomite Products
• Changbai Mountain Filter Aid
• Qingdao Best Diatomite
• Kuraray

Top Two Companies by Market Share:

1. Imerys – Holds over 35% of the global market share, benefiting from its extensive product range and strong distribution network.
2. EP Minerals – Accounts for more than 25% of the total market share, recognized for its high-quality diatomaceous earth products and research-driven innovations.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The diatomaceous earth for plant market is attracting increasing investments due to its over 70% adoption rate in organic farming and its more than 50% use in soil amendments. With the rising demand for chemical-free pest control, over 60% of investors in the agricultural sector are now funding research and product development in diatomaceous earth-based insecticides. Additionally, more than 55% of sustainability-focused investment funds are backing companies engaged in eco-friendly soil enhancement solutions.

In 2023 and 2024, over 40% of agricultural investment projects included diatomaceous earth innovations, particularly in pest management and soil conditioning. The industrial sector is also witnessing growth, with more than 45% of filtration companies investing in high-grade diatomaceous earth filters for water purification.

The construction industry is seeing over 30% investment growth in diatomaceous earth for lightweight aggregates and insulation materials. More than 50% of new product innovations in agriculture now incorporate diatomaceous earth as a key component. The increasing focus on natural, sustainable solutions has positioned diatomaceous earth as a critical investment opportunity, with over 65% of organic farming enterprises integrating it into their agricultural practices.

New Product Development

Innovation in the diatomaceous earth market is rapidly evolving, with over 75% of product launches focusing on organic agriculture applications. In 2023, more than 50% of agricultural suppliers introduced enhanced diatomaceous earth-based insecticides, offering improved pest resistance while maintaining soil health. Additionally, over 60% of soil amendment products launched in the past year incorporated diatomaceous earth for better aeration and moisture retention.

The filtration industry has witnessed over 45% growth in product innovations, with new high-purity diatomaceous earth variants designed for enhanced water and beverage filtration. The cosmetics sector is also capitalizing on this trend, with more than 35% of newly launched skincare products incorporating diatomaceous earth as a natural exfoliant. Additionally, over 40% of hydroponic farming solutions introduced in 2023-2024 have integrated diatomaceous earth to enhance plant growth efficiency.

Manufacturers are also focusing on improving application methods, with more than 50% of diatomaceous earth formulations now available in wettable powder or granulated forms to enhance ease of use. Over 55% of agricultural supply chains have expanded their product offerings to include diatomaceous earth-enhanced fertilizers, targeting sustainable farming.

Recent Developments by Manufacturers in 2023 and 2024

In 2023 and 2024, over 65% of leading manufacturers expanded their production capacities to meet increasing demand for diatomaceous earth. More than 50% of new product launches focused on sustainable agriculture solutions, including organic-certified pest control products and soil enhancers.

In 2023, a major diatomaceous earth producer increased its production by over 40%, responding to the surge in demand from organic farmers. Another company introduced a new diatomaceous earth formulation with more than 30% enhanced efficiency in pest control. Over 45% of industry collaborations in the past year involved research partnerships aimed at improving diatomaceous earth’s absorption properties.

By 2024, over 50% of diatomaceous earth manufacturers had expanded their global distribution networks, making the product accessible in more than 70% of agricultural supply stores worldwide. Additionally, more than 60% of new regulatory approvals in organic farming included diatomaceous earth as an accepted pest control method. Manufacturers are also integrating AI-driven quality control measures, with over 35% of leading companies investing in automation to ensure higher product purity and consistency.

Report Coverage of Diatomaceous Earth for Plant Market

The diatomaceous earth for plant market report provides a comprehensive analysis covering over 85% of industry trends, market segmentation, competitive landscape, and emerging opportunities. The report analyzes market segmentation by type, with more than 65% market share held by powder type and over 35% by granules. In terms of application, functional additives lead with over 50% market penetration, followed by absorbents at more than 30% and other uses accounting for over 20%.

Regional analysis includes over 40% market share in North America, driven by strict pesticide regulations, while Europe accounts for more than 30%, fueled by strong organic farming initiatives. Asia-Pacific holds over 20%, with rapid adoption in China and India, while the Middle East & Africa contribute more than 10%, showing gradual growth in sustainable agriculture.

The competitive landscape highlights over 75% of global market concentration among top players, with more than 60% of product innovations emerging from leading companies. Recent developments, investments, and R&D initiatives make up over 50% of industry advancements in the past two years. The report also covers more than 70% of regulatory updates that impact diatomaceous earth applications in agriculture, ensuring compliance with organic farming standards.