What spray to kill Earwigs?

Discussion in 'Pests, Diseases and Cures' started by ThePlantAssassin, Sep 21, 2019.

  1. ThePlantAssassin

    ThePlantAssassin Gardener

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    Does a normal bug spray kill Earwigs too or do I need a specialised insecticide please? Think that's what is munching my Clematis flowers.
     
  2. noisette47

    noisette47 Total Gardener

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    I can't believe I'm writing this, but just for once, there's an effective alternative to chemicals :biggrin:
    Stick an upturned flowerpot stuffed with dried grass or straw or shredded paper on a cane. Shake it out every day or every two days.....you'll be amazed how many of the little blighters you catch! Either drown them in salted water or squash them if you're feeling particularly aggressive :roflol:
     
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    • Janet mahay

      Janet mahay Gardener

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      While several pesticides are available to kill earwigs, they are not required, and you can control them without toxic and potentially hazardous chemicals.

      Insert a shallow, clean can -- such as a cat food or tuna can -- into the ground so the lip of the can is even with the soil level. Fill the can with about 1/2 inch of fish oil to attract the earwigs. They will fall into the can and won't be able to get out. Monitor the can regularly, dumping any earwigs caught into a bucket of soapy water to kill them. Put the can back into the ground, and add more fish oil as needed.

      Plant annual flowers that attract the tachinid fly such as alyssum (Lobularia maritime), dill (Anethum graveolens) and calendula (Calendula officinalis). The tachinid fly is a predatory insect that preys on earwigs naturally
       
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