How do I control earwigs and will they hurt house plants?
How do I control earwigs and will they hurt house plants?
Earwigs are odd looking insects which have pincers or forceps protruding from the abdomen. These are somewhat intimidating looking but they are not poisonous and they do not spread disease.
There are many species of earwigs throughout the world. Some only eat plant material, some eat decaying vegetation, and some are predaceous. Some earwigs even feed on dander of rodents.
While as with any type of insect with multiple species, biology and habits vary. Most types of earwigs generally prefer wet areas which are cooler and undisturbed. Earwigs can be a serious garden pest if conditions are right. If there is adequate ground cover, wet soil, and food, the earwigs will do well.
Since some earwigs prefer young plants, besides being a garden pest, the earwigs can become an indoor pest and feed on indoor plants. Earwigs are commonly found under plant pots in the saucer that is used to catch water that drains through the soil. This wet and dark area is protected from sun. Outside, the earwigs might feed on decaying vegetation washed through the humus soil. Earwigs can attack the young plants, though, so watch for damage of plants, especially seedlings.
When plants are brought in, earwigs can remain in the saucers and prosper in the constant temperature of the indoor environment. They do need high moisture substrate so even overwatered plant soil can be a host.
If it appears that earwigs were brought in with plants, remove the plant and shake out the earwigs outside. Dry the saucer and inspect the plant soil for other earwigs or eggs and remove these if found. Look around carpet edges inside to make sure that earwigs are not there. They can be vacuumed to remove; don’t forget to remove the bag.
One way to rid the house of earwigs besides vacuuming if they are not confined to a localized area such as a plant, is to moisten the surface of a newspaper and place it near the infestation. Since earwigs are nocturnal generally, remove the paper in the morning after they have gone into the nooks of the pages.
What does an earwig infestation look like?
Why do I have earwigs in my apartment or home?
Are earwigs dangerous or poisonous to humans?
Do earwigs have wings and do they fly?
How do I exterminate or get rid of earwigs?
How do I keep earwigs out of my house?
What are the difference
-between an Earwig and a Cockroach
-between Earwigs and Silverfish