How To Get Rid Of Earwigs In The Vegetable Garden

How to Control Earwigs In Your Garden — Best Ways to Get Rid of Earwigs from www.goodhousekeeping.com

What are Earwigs?

Earwigs are small, nocturnal insects that are commonly found in gardens and landscapes. They have a pair of pincers at the tail end of their body and are usually a dark brown color. Earwigs are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plants and animals, and they often feed on the foliage of vegetables in the garden. In addition to damaging plants, earwigs can also be a nuisance to gardeners, as they often invade homes in search of food and shelter.

Identifying Earwig Infestations in the Garden

Earwig infestations can be difficult to identify because they are nocturnal and hide during the day. The easiest way to identify an infestation is to inspect the plants for damage. Earwigs feed on leaves and stems, leaving behind jagged edges on the foliage. They also leave behind dark brown droppings, which can be a sign of an infestation. If you suspect that your garden is infested with earwigs, it is important to act quickly in order to prevent further damage.

Preventing Earwig Infestations in the Garden

The best way to prevent earwig infestations in the garden is to maintain a clean and tidy environment. Remove debris and weeds, which can provide shelter for the insects. Trim back any overgrown plants and reduce the amount of mulch around the garden. It is also important to keep the garden free of standing water, as this can attract earwigs and other pests. Finally, keep the garden well-ventilated and make sure that there are no cracks or crevices where earwigs could enter.

Removing Earwigs from the Garden

Once an earwig infestation has been identified, it is important to take steps to remove the insects from the garden. The most effective way to remove earwigs from the garden is to use a vacuum cleaner to suck them up. Make sure to dispose of the vacuum bag afterwards, as the earwigs may still be alive and able to escape. Other methods of removal include using a hand-held vacuum, sticky traps, or a slurry of water and dish soap.

Using Natural Pesticides to Control Earwig Infestations

If you are looking for an alternative to chemical pesticides, there are several natural methods of controlling earwig infestations. One of the most effective methods is to use diatomaceous earth, which is a type of powder made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms. This powder is effective at killing earwigs on contact and can be applied directly to the plants in the garden. Another natural method is to use neem oil, which is derived from the neem tree and has insect-repelling properties.

Using Chemical Pesticides to Control Earwig Infestations

If natural methods are not effective, chemical pesticides may be necessary to control earwig infestations. Before using any pesticide, it is important to read the label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Common chemical pesticides that can be used to control earwigs include pyrethrins, permethrins, and carbamates. It is important to note that chemical pesticides can be toxic to humans and pets, so it is important to take the necessary precautions when using them.

Attracting Natural Predators to Control Earwig Infestations

Another effective way to control earwig infestations is to attract natural predators to the garden. Ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps are all natural predators of earwigs and can help to reduce the population in the garden. To attract these predators, plant flowers such as alyssum and dill, as these will attract the beneficial insects. Additionally, leaving a shallow dish of water in the garden can provide the predators with a source of hydration.

Summary

Earwigs can be a nuisance in the garden, but there are several methods of control available. The best way to prevent earwig infestations is to maintain a clean and tidy garden, removing debris and weeds, and keeping the garden free of standing water. If an infestation has already occurred, the earwigs can be removed manually or with a vacuum cleaner. Natural methods such as diatomaceous earth and neem oil can be used to control earwigs, as well as chemical pesticides. Lastly, attracting natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help to reduce the population of earwigs in the garden.