Replies

Its early to talk about this, but here are two articles regarding using Corn Meal Gluten as a Pre-emergent herbicide (and fertilizer). Another 2 links about using it for Ant and Pill bug control (Ants can eat CMG, but can't digest it.) It is a pricey pre-emergent, but reasonable for insect control. I have used it for both and reduced the dandelions and crab grass in my lawn (But not other listed weeds) which allowed me to spot spray for things like chick weed, creeping charlie, and clover. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

https://www.gardenmyths.com/corn-gluten-meal-weeds/

(Not all CMG is the same, so you need the correct product and how to apply. Discusses the OSU Study in link below.)

and

https://extension.oregonstate.edu/news/corn-gluten-meal-did-not-prevent-weeds-germinating-osu-study

(Unable to duplicate an Iowa St University Study that did show a reduction. Was discussed in first link.)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Read more at Gardening Know How: Cornmeal As Weed Killer And Pest Control: How To Use Cornmeal Gluten In The Garden

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/cornmeal-in-the-garden.htm"

"Using Cornmeal Gluten to Kill Ants Cornmeal gluten is also a popular method to control ants. Pouring it wherever you see ants traveling is the best option. They will pick up the gluten and take it to the nest where they will feed on it. Since the ants cannot digest this cornmeal product, they will starve to death. It may take up to a week or so before you see your ant population dwindling."

Here is a post that indicates that it can be used for pill bug control

https://www.houzz.com/discussions/1748735/sow-bugs-pill-bugs-rollie-pollies-wretched-insects-from-hell

gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9) 7 years ago

"Generally they like a high degree of moisture, which is not something I'd equate with a water-wise AZ garden, so maybe it is the amount of irrigation you are providing. Ever consider developing a more drought tolerant garden that requires minimal irrigation?

If that's not your thing and these guys are present in large numbers, try cornmeal or corn gluten meal. Available in bulk cheaply at feed stores, the pill bugs are attracted to it and eat it. But it affects their digestive system and kills them. Lot less expensive than DE and holds up better with irrigation. Corn gluten meal is also a low grade organic fertilizer, a pre-emergent herbicide and has a number of fungicidal properties as well.."

*****I have used this for ants in the garden area along with powdered sugar and borax and had pretty good control. (I was looking for control, not running an experiment, I used both....) I have NOT used CMG on pill/sow bugs but if they become a problem I will try it.