How to Get Earwigs Out of Potted Plants

Earwigs are a common garden pest that can infest potted plants, damaging leaves, roots, and flowers. These insects are characterized by their flat bodies, long antennae, and forceps-like pincers on their hindquarters. If you notice earwigs in your potted plants, it's important to take action to get rid of them before they cause significant damage.

Identifying Earwigs in Potted Plants

The first step to getting rid of earwigs in potted plants is to identify whether you have an infestation. Look for signs of earwigs such as chewed or damaged leaves, flowers, or fruit. Check the soil for earwigs, as they often hide in dark, moist environments.

You may also be able to spot earwigs themselves. These insects are usually active at night, so use a flashlight to inspect your plants after dark. Look for earwigs on the surfaces of leaves and the soil around the base of the plant.

Preventing Earwigs in Potted Plants

Preventing earwigs from infesting your potted plants is the best defense against an infestation. Here are some preventative measures you can take:

Keep your plant soil dry. Earwigs thrive in moist environments, so try not to overwater your plants.

Eliminate hiding places. Earwigs like to hide in dark, damp areas, such as under pots or in mulch. Keep the area around your plants clean and clear of debris.

Use a barrier. You can use copper tape or diatomaceous earth around the base of your pots to create a barrier that earwigs won't cross.

Natural Remedies for Getting Rid of Earwigs in Potted Plants

If you have an earwig infestation in your potted plants, there are several natural remedies you can use to control the problem:

Traps. You can make simple earwig traps using tuna cans filled with a little bit of oil. Place the cans around the base of the affected plants, and the earwigs will crawl in and drown.

Beer traps. Earwigs are attracted to the smell of beer. Fill a shallow container, such as a saucer, with beer and leave it around your plants. The earwigs will crawl in and drown.

Natural repellents. There are several natural repellents you can use to ward off earwigs, including citrus oil, peppermint oil, and garlic oil. Simply mix a few drops of the oil with water in a spray bottle, and spray it on and around your plants.

Chemical Remedies for Getting Rid of Earwigs in Potted Plants

If natural remedies don't work, you may need to use chemical remedies to control an earwig infestation in your potted plants. Here are some options:

Insecticides. There are several insecticides that are effective at killing earwigs. Look for an insecticide that contains pyrethrin or neonicotinoid, and follow the instructions carefully when applying.

Boric acid. Boric acid is a natural insecticide that is effective at killing earwigs. Simply sprinkle a small amount of boric acid around the base of the affected plant.

Soapy water. You can make a simple insecticidal soap by mixing a few drops of dish soap with water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on and around your plants to kill earwigs.

Conclusion

Getting rid of earwigs in potted plants requires identifying and preventing the problem, as well as using natural or chemical remedies to control the infestation. With some diligence and persistence, you can protect your potted plants from the damage caused by these pesky insects.