Earwig
Familiar insects with distinctive rear pincers. Earwigs are genuine garden allies - they are important predators of aphids and insect eggs, and are far more beneficial than their reputation suggests.
Why you want them
Earwigs are significant predators of aphids, insect eggs, and small larvae, particularly active at night. Research has shown that earwig populations in fruit orchards can substantially reduce aphid pressure without any other intervention. They also feed on algae, fungal material, and decaying organic matter, contributing to nutrient cycling. Their nocturnal habits mean their predation often goes unnoticed, leading to an undeserved reputation as pest insects.
Helps control
How to attract them
- Hollow bamboo cane traps placed in trees
- Loose straw or wood shavings traps
- Undisturbed mulch
- Log piles
Preferred habitat
In dense vegetation, under mulch, inside flower heads, and in sheltered soil crevices. They are most active at night. They overwinter as adults in soil or under bark.
What harms them
Insecticide use, removal of sheltering habitat, and bare soil that exposes them to predators.
Things to know
Earwigs occasionally feed on seedlings and soft flower petals, particularly in early spring when other food is scarce. In most gardens, their pest control benefit outweighs this minor feeding. If they become a nuisance in specific situations, trap-and-relocate is more effective than control.
Related pest guides
Garden, by Willowbottom works with nature, not against it. Support your garden allies and they will do most of the hard work for you.