cowgirl chef-
No stupid questions here. DE is diatomaceous earth, commonly used as a
non-selective contact killer. DE is the fossilized remains of single-celled creatures called diatoms. Each fossil has sharp edges that irritate and deter soft-bodied insects. The material abraids the exoskeleton of insects, causing dehydration and death. Effective on cockroaches, silverfish, ants, fleas, slugs and most other insects. Insects cannot become immune and will die within 48 hours of contact. It is safe around children, pets and wildllife, long lasting, odorless, non-staining. Try not to breath the dust.
I also use it in the feed of my chickens, dog, cats and goats to assist with worming and overall health. It is in many food products we eat also.
This is different than the DE used for swimming pools which does not work due to the chemical treatment processing it goes thru.
Go to,
http://agorganics.com/products.html?id=12&pId=95 for more info.
Tony M