[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”3.26.7″ custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”” saved_tabs=”all” global_module=”10170″][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.5.1″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin_tablet=”-100px||-25px||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”-125px||-50px||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|tablet”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.5.1″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_ src=”https://freckledcalifornian.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Freckled-californian-Logo-head-line-posts.jpg” title_text=”Freckled californian Logo head line posts” url=”https://freckledcalifornian.com/” show_bottom_space=”off” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” max_width_tablet=”” max_width_phone=”980px” max_width_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_margin=”18px||18px||true|false” custom_padding=”53px|||||”][/et_pb_][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.5.1″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_signup mailchimp_list=”freckledcalifornian|e0424cc88d” first_name_fullwidth=”off” last_name_fullwidth=”off” use_custom_fields=”on” title=”Need help planning your garden?” description=”
” first_name_fullwidth_tablet=”off” first_name_fullwidth_phone=”off” first_name_fullwidth_last_edited=”on|desktop” last_name_fullwidth_tablet=”” last_name_fullwidth_phone=”off” last_name_fullwidth_last_edited=”on|phone” disabled_on=”on|on|off” _builder_version=”4.5.1″ form_field_custom_margin=”-11px||0px||false|false” form_field_custom_margin_tablet=”5px||||false|false” form_field_custom_margin_phone=”||0px||false|false” form_field_custom_margin_last_edited=”on|desktop” form_field_custom_padding=”4px||4px||true|false” form_field_custom_padding_tablet=”” form_field_custom_padding_phone=”||4px||false|false” form_field_custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” header_level=”h3″ header_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font_size=”20px” body_text_color=”#000000″ body_font_size=”13.65px” form_field_font=”Playfair Display||||||||” form_field_font_size=”14px” background_color=”rgba(92,146,101,0.69)” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”15px” button_text_color=”#ffffff” button_bg_color=”rgba(36,39,48,0.35)” button_use_icon=”off” background_layout=”light” custom_margin=”||||false” custom_margin_tablet=”-30px||||false|true” custom_margin_phone=”-10px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”10px||||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”20px|20px|12px|20px|false|true” custom_padding_phone=”||20px||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” saved_tabs=”all”][et_pb_signup_custom_field field_id=”6″ field_title=”Are you a SoCal Gardener?” field_type=”radio” radio_options=”%91{%22checked%22:0,%22value%22:%22Yes%22,%22id%22:0,%22dragID%22:-1},{%22checked%22:0,%22value%22:%22No%22,%22id%22:1,%22dragID%22:0,%22link_url%22:%22%22,%22link_text%22:%22%22}%93″ fullwidth_field=”off” _builder_version=”3.26.7″ form_field_font_size=”14px” form_field_letter_spacing=”0px” form_field_line_height=”1.3em” text_orientation=”left” width=”100%” predefined_field=”6″][/et_pb_signup_custom_field][/et_pb_signup][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.26.3″ custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ specialty_columns=”3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.26.7″ custom_margin_tablet=”-80px||||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”-80px||-50px||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone”][et_pb_column_inner _builder_version=”3.26.7″ saved_specialty_column_type=”3_4″][et_pb_ src=”https://freckledcalifornian.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/DSC0406-e1629826276815.jpg” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”||12px||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” hover_enabled=”0″ title_text=”Juvenile Earwig” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_][et_pb_post_title date=”off” categories=”off” comments=”off” featured_=”off” _builder_version=”3.26.7″ title_text_align=”center” meta_font=”Homemade Apple||||||||” meta_text_align=”center” custom_margin=”||-40px||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”||15px||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone”][/et_pb_post_title][et_pb_signup mailchimp_list=”freckledcalifornian|e0424cc88d” first_name_fullwidth=”off” last_name_fullwidth=”off” use_custom_fields=”on” title=”Need help planning your garden?” description=”
” first_name_fullwidth_tablet=”off” first_name_fullwidth_phone=”off” first_name_fullwidth_last_edited=”on|desktop” last_name_fullwidth_tablet=”” last_name_fullwidth_phone=”off” last_name_fullwidth_last_edited=”on|phone” disabled_on=”off|off|on” _builder_version=”4.5.1″ form_field_custom_margin=”-11px||0px||false|false” form_field_custom_margin_tablet=”5px||||false|false” form_field_custom_margin_phone=”||0px||false|false” form_field_custom_margin_last_edited=”on|desktop” form_field_custom_padding=”4px||4px||true|false” form_field_custom_padding_tablet=”” form_field_custom_padding_phone=”||4px||false|false” form_field_custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” header_level=”h3″ header_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font_size=”20px” body_text_color=”#000000″ body_font_size=”13.65px” form_field_font=”Playfair Display||||||||” form_field_font_size=”14px” background_color=”rgba(92,146,101,0.69)” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”15px” button_text_color=”#ffffff” button_bg_color=”rgba(36,39,48,0.35)” button_use_icon=”off” background_layout=”light” custom_margin=”||||false” custom_margin_tablet=”-30px||||false|true” custom_margin_phone=”-10px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”10px||||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”20px|20px|12px|20px|false|true” custom_padding_phone=”||20px||false|false” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” global_module=”10180″ saved_tabs=”all”][et_pb_signup_custom_field field_id=”6″ field_title=”Are you a SoCal Gardener?” field_type=”radio” radio_options=”%91{%22checked%22:0,%22value%22:%22Yes%22,%22id%22:0,%22dragID%22:-1},{%22checked%22:0,%22value%22:%22No%22,%22id%22:1,%22dragID%22:0,%22link_url%22:%22%22,%22link_text%22:%22%22}%93″ fullwidth_field=”off” _builder_version=”3.26.7″ form_field_font_size=”14px” form_field_letter_spacing=”0px” form_field_line_height=”1.3em” text_orientation=”left” width=”100%” predefined_field=”6″][/et_pb_signup_custom_field][/et_pb_signup][/et_pb_column_inner][/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.26.3″][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”3.26.3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″]
Earwigs, also known as pincher bugs, are scary looking. Their scaly bodies and large pincer claws on their rears look menacing. Earwigs like to hide in dark, damp spaces which, in a vegetable garden, usually means the crevices of our cabbages, artichokes, lettuces, and the list could go on and on. I remember the first time we harvested a napa cabbage I was holding it in my bare hands and all of a sudden earwigs started dropping out as I walked towards the house. I shrieked and dropped the cabbage, which led a mass exodus all over our cement. It looked like something out of a horror movie and to this day I’m a little weary of newly harvested cabbage.
Regardless, in many cases earwigs are simply a nuisance and the food they inhabit is completely edible. In fact, with our napa cabbages they usually damage the outside leaves and the insides remain untouched. Either way, use caution when you bring produce inside and start processing your homegrown food. Tip: sometimes Sam and I tear off the outer leaves outside over our cement, so when the earwigs drop out we can just stomp on them and squish! Sorry, I know it sounds gross.
First, I always like to identify the pest I am dealing with before determining the best course of action. See below for a picture of earwig damage on my mature potatoes. You’ll notice the damage is more of a nuisance in this case rather than devastating. If you suspect earwigs, but haven’t seen them, try looking down in the crevices of the plant (like my artichoke picture above). If that doesn’t work, try a nocturnal investigative expedition. Sound funky? Bascially, earwigs are nocturnal, so you might have a better chance at seeing them chomping on your plants at night. Read on for different methods to control earwigs in your garden…
The vibrant flowers and lush green foliage of beach morning glory plants make them a popular addition to coastal gardens. However, these plants can fall prey to earwig infestation, which can damage leaves and flowers. If you’ve noticed signs of earwigs on your beach morning glory, there are several effective methods to get rid of these pests and protect your plant.
Identifying Earwig Infestation
Earwigs are small, elongated insects with pincer-like appendages at the rear. They typically hide in moist dark spaces during the day and come out at night to feed. Signs of an earwig infestation on a beach morning glory plant include
- Holes in leaves and flowers
- Chewed or ragged foliage
- Presence of earwigs around the plant, especially at night
- Small, black earwig droppings
Checking under leaves and debris around the plant during the day and using a flashlight at night can help detect earwigs Identifying them early is key to protecting your plant from extensive damage
Natural Ways to Get Rid of Earwigs
There are several natural methods that can help get rid of earwigs on beach morning glory plants:
Diatomaceous Earth
Sprinkling diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant creates a dry barrier that dehydrates and kills earwigs on contact Reapply after rain or watering
Neem Oil
The natural insecticidal properties of neem oil can repel and kill earwigs. Dilute with water and spray on foliar and stems every few days.
Beer Traps
Sinks filled with beer attract and drown earwigs. Bury traps near plants, with rims at soil level. Empty and refill traps daily.
Essential Oils
Strong-smelling oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, and lemongrass deter earwigs. Mix a few drops with water and spray onto plant.
Soap Spray
A mixture of 2 tablespoons mild soap with 1 quart water can kill earwigs on contact. Spray onto infested areas daily.
Preventative Measures
Implementing good gardening practices can help avoid and prevent future earwig infestations:
- Remove plant debris and thick groundcover
- Eliminate excess moisture
- Allow space between plants for airflow
- Clean up dropped fruits/vegetables
- Use row covers/screens to block pests
- Attract natural predators like birds
Avoid using heavy mulch around beach morning glories, as it retains moisture earwigs seek.
When to Use Pesticides
If earwig damage persists after trying natural remedies, pesticide sprays specifically formulated for earwigs may be warranted. Always follow label directions carefully:
- Test on small area first to ensure plant tolerance
- Spray in evenings when earwigs are active
- Thoroughly coat undersides of leaves and stems
- Reapply weekly initially, then as needed
- Keep pets and people away until dry
Chemicals like carbaryl, lambda-cyhalothrin, and gamma-cyhalothrin are common active ingredients. Avoid pollinator-harming pesticides.
Maintaining Plant Health
The best defense against earwigs is a healthy, vigorous beach morning glory plant. Proper care is key:
- Plant in well-draining soil
- Water only when top inch is dry
- Fertilize monthly during growing season
- Prune out dead stems and leaves
- Monitor for other pests/diseases
- Bring indoors or protect if cold-sensitive
Addressing earwig infestations promptly and protecting your beach morning glory with natural, safe methods will help the plant continue thriving. Consistent monitoring and maintenance are vital to deterring earwigs and keeping your coastal garden healthy and pest-free.
Manual Removal -this worked for us!
Earwigs are generally nocturnal. This is why you don’t really see them during the day, as they hide in those dark spaces of your plants. Since they typically feed on your garden at night, the best way to spot them is to take a flashlight and go out once it is dark. You’ll probably see earwigs feasting. I distinctly remember, back when our garden first started, earwigs were demolishing all my new seedlings. For an entire week, Sam and I went out at night with thick garden gloves and a flashlight and manually squished earwigs. We would find a hundred a night feasting on the leaves of our plants. I’m not kidding. With this very aggressive (and gross) method, we beat the earwigs!!! PS: you could drop them into a bucket of soapy water if the thought of squishing them is too much. While earwigs will always be in the garden, their population should be small enough that their damage would not take out entire plants.
Besides the manual squishing method outlined above, I decided to try some of the most popular earwig traps recommended online. See the results below.
At dusk time, take a dish (a little deeper is better so they can’t crawl out), fill it with a thin layer of one of these two mixtures:
Half Olive Oil & Half Soy Sauce
Half Olive Oil, Half Water, and 1 tsp Molasses
Bury it so the lip/edge is even with the soil level. Let the earwigs fall in as they feast at night! I didn’t notice a significant difference in the attraction abilities of either because both traps caught earwigs. The idea is that earwigs will be attracted to the smell, fall in, and then can’t escape because of the oil.
Cons: I did notice some little ants in these traps (see photos), so if you already have an abundant ant problem, you might want to skip this trap in fear that it would attract more ants to your garden. Also, if you have children or pets, you will want to keep them away from drinking the traps.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_ src=”https://freckledcalifornian.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/DSC0410.jpg” _builder_version=”3.26.3″][/et_pb_][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″]
Earwigs love to lounge in dark, cool places. This is why they will usually be under pots when you move them, in crevices, etc. So, this kind of trap aims to mimic a cool, dark crevice. Take newspaper (or cardboard), roll it into a tube, and secure with tape. If you are using newspaper, make it a skinny tube. If you are using cardboard, roll it according to the photo below. Moisten the inside by running some water down it or misting the inside with a spray bottle. NOTE: newspaper gets damp very quickly so be really conservative with the amount of water. I used an old newsletter we had received in the mail which was a little thicker than newspaper.
Place these rolls on the ground around the base of your plants. I put mine right next to the bases of my artichokes. Make sure to place the rolls at dusk and then check in the morning.
In the morning, carefully collect the rolls (being careful not to tilt them!) and dump them into a bucket with water. I caught an earwig in each roll.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_ src=”https://freckledcalifornian.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/DSC0677-e1555708752741.jpg” _builder_version=”3.26.3″][/et_pb_][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″ custom_margin=”||11px|||”]
This earwig trap is both adorable and effective. I did find that it took a few days to find earwigs in the trap, so I recommend this method for a more long-term, low-maintenance solution to your earwigs.
The idea: a terra cotta pot stuffed with newspaper mimics a flower’s petal crevices where earwigs typically like to hide.
You can use terra cotta pots of different sizes, but I find that a 3.5″-4″ pot isn’t too heavy to be supported by a branch, yet is large enough to create a good trap for earwigs. Simply take some newspaper and stuff it into the terra cotta pot. This mimics the dark folds and crevices that earwigs like to hide in during the daytime.
Take a thick branch and drive it into the soil where you would like the trap. Ideally, you want the terra cotta pot to sit at the same level as the flowers/blooms because thats where the earwigs usually find shelter. Place the terra cotta pot, upside down, on the thick branch.
To ensure the pot doesn’t fall down the stick, make sure the width of your branch is larger than the drainage hole of the pot, or that the branch has a knob that the pot can get stuck on.
Wait a few days and then check the trap during the day (as this is when earwigs are hiding in shelter). Since these traps look very cute in a cottage garden, you can leave them in long-term and periodically check for earwigs.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_ src=”https://freckledcalifornian.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/diy-terra-cotta-pot-earwig-trap-scaled.jpg” _builder_version=”3.26.7″][/et_pb_][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″]
Remember, all of these methods are considered conservative approaches to dealing with pests. I like to exhaust my options or let beneficial bugs take care of the problem before moving to more aggressive methods. As our garden ages, I am seeing more and more benefits of letting things balance out. I know it can be tough, but the more I create this ecosystem and watch/observe, the more I see things working out on their own. Once again, gardening is teaching me patience.
How to Get Rid of Earwigs
FAQ
How can I stop earwigs from eating my plants?
What do earwigs hate the most?
Why are there earwigs in my potted plants?
How do you catch earwigs in a garden?
Adults overwinter under garden debris, stones, and boards as well as in soil. To trap earwigs, you can fill cat food cans (or other similar cans) with ¼ inch of oil (preferably fish oil) and sink them into the ground near plants.
How do you get rid of earwigs?
To use essential oils to get rid of earwigs, mix 15 drops of an oil like lavender, basil, peppermint, cinnamon, or clove with 4 ounces of water. Next, add it to a spray bottle and spray where these flying bugs with pinchers are hiding. The scent of these oils repels earwigs. This DIY treatment is great for both indoor and outdoor use. 4. Vinegar
How to control earwigs organically?
Another method to control earwigs organically is to attract birds. Birds that may eat earwigs include bluebirds, cardinals, chickadees, wrens, and others. Therefore, try to attract birds to your vegetable garden. 10. Newspaper Trap This method is a good use of old newspapers, as they make a very nice shelter for earwigs when damp.
How do you grow beach morning glories?
To establish beach morning glories in gardens, take a cutting and set it into moistened sand. The internodes will shortly send out roots. Set them 3 feet (1 m.) apart and keep plants moist for the first few months. Gardeners growing beach morning glories can breathe a sigh of relief.