How to Get Rid of Earwigs on Plants
About Earwigs
Earwigs are insects that can sometimes be found on plants. They are generally harmless to plants and do not cause significant damage. However, they may feed on small, tender plant parts such as new growth or flower petals. In large numbers, they can become a nuisance and may require control measures. Natural methods of control include removing earwigs by hand, reducing habitat and moisture, and using predatory insects such as parasitic wasps. Chemical controls, such as pesticides, should be used as a last resort and only after considering the potential risks to other beneficial insects and the environment. This pest care guide will walk you through all the tips and tricks for getting rid of earwigs for good.
earwigs on a stem
Identifying Earwigs
Earwigs are characterized by their long, thin, and segmented bodies. They are typically brown or black in color and have a pair of pincers on their abdomen. Earwigs can be found in moist, dark places such as under leaves, in mulch, or in crevices of plants.
Accessing Plant Health For Earwigs Damage
Damaged leaves, flowers, and stems.
Eggs on Leaves
Strong Smell
Treatment & Methods
There are many methods out there to get rid of earwigs. Here are 4 of the best methods for getting rid of earwigs:
Remove earwigs by hand: One simple method of controlling earwigs is to physically remove them from your plants. This can be done using gloves or a tool such as a small shovel or trowel.
Reduce habitat and moisture: Earwigs prefer humid environments, so reducing moisture and dampness in your garden can help discourage them. This can be achieved by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Use predatory insects: Some insects, such as parasitic wasps, prey on earwigs and can help keep their population in check. Introducing these insects to your garden can be a natural and effective way to control earwigs.
WARNING: some pesticides are known to be toxic if ingested, absorbed through the skin, or inhaled. It may cause moderate eye or skin irritation. Always read labels of the products you are using the proper safety equipment.
4. Use chemical controls as a last resort: If other methods are not effective, chemical controls such as pesticides may be necessary. However, it's important to use these products responsibly and only as a last resort, as they can have negative impacts on other beneficial insects and the environment. Always follow the label instructions when using any pesticides.
Prevention
There are several steps you can take to prevent earwigs from becoming a problem in your garden:
Keep your garden clean and tidy: Remove debris, weeds, and other potential hiding places for earwigs.
Reduce moisture: Earwigs prefer humid environments, so reducing moisture in your garden can help prevent them from taking up residence. This can be achieved by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Use barriers: Physical barriers such as copper strips or mesh can help prevent earwigs from getting access to plants.
Use repellents: Some plants have natural repellent properties that can help keep earwigs away. Examples include lavender, marigold, and basil.
Use predatory insects: Introducing insects that prey on earwigs, such as parasitic wasps, can help keep their population in check.
It's worth noting that while these steps can help prevent earwigs, it may not be possible to completely eliminate them from your garden. In some cases, control measures may still be necessary to keep their population in check.
Frequently Asked Question’s
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Yes, some spiders do eat earwigs. Many species of spiders are generalist predators, which means they will eat a variety of insects, including earwigs.
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Earwigs have wings and are capable of flight. However, they do not fly frequently and are generally not strong fliers. They tend to prefer crawling and will often only take to the air as a last resort when threatened or in search of a new habitat.
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Earwigs get their name from the old belief that they crawl into the ears of humans while they are sleeping and burrow into the brain.
This belief likely originated from the fact that earwigs are attracted to warm, moist environments and are sometimes found in close proximity to humans.
However, there is no scientific basis for this belief, and earwigs do not pose any significant threat to humans. In reality, earwigs are generally harmless insects that do not pose any significant risk to humans or animals.
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Earwigs are generally not aggressive and do not bite humans. They have a pair of pincers on their abdomen, which they use to defend themselves against predators and to capture prey. However, these pincers are not strong enough to penetrate human skin and are not capable of causing significant harm.