Earwigs

[Stitz]

I found more than the "usual" numbers of earwigs recently in 2 Phaius pots and 2 Stanhopea baskets, well separated. I had some Liquid Sevin handy. The label includes earwigs on the list. However, I didn't see a recommendation for a dosage/dilution.

Yesterday, I tried the "minimal" Sevin recommendation, 2/3 oz per gallon of water. Thus, I mixed 2 oz in 3 gallons. Was this strong enough?

When should I do a "repeat" application of the product (in plain English, when should I poison 'em, ag'in)? I'm not familiar with these animals. I don't want them chomping up the roots of MY plants!

Stitzelweller

[Rocinante]

As far as I know, earwigs are not really a threat to your orchids. I think they most probably just like living in the damp medium in your pots. Soaking your pots thoroughly under water should give them the hint that they are not welcome. I've included a link that has a logical-sounding preventative measure. I don't think you need to use Agent Orange on 'em!

Earwig - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

[Hummer344]

You can take a few sheets of newpaper, moisten them, roll them up tight, and put them in the area of the pots. Earwigs like moist dark places and will borrow into the newspaper rolls. You can pick up the rolls and throw them in the garbage, earwigs and all.

[Catcym]

I find a somewhat effective mean to control earwig population in garden. I used a left over of tuna fish can. Remove the fish, pour some water and may be a few drops of cooking oil. fill the can half full and place the can in your garden. Earwigs are attracted to the smell and would be drowned. I killed a lot by this method.
Good luck !

[Stitz]

Catcym,

Your "control" might create more problems for me. In addition to the neighborhood cats, there would probably be a few other animals such as possums, raccoons and even coyotes are occasionally spotted IN my city! No, I think that I'll continue using good, ol' fashioned chemicals! I'm less likely to catch rabies and tick borne diseases. A little neurological dysfunction as a result of pesticide use beats a LOT of neurological issues as a result of pathogenic diseases!!

Stitzelweller

[articuno75]

You can use Brookn's recipe and "wash" them. (kill them) Water your orchids or whatever, then spray the recipe. After that, flush with water.

Little boogers either run or die, but mainly die.

[brookn]

With my outdoor chids I make up the 2 gal watering can up with water, cinnamon extract (I just dump a bit in scientific lol) and a bit of dish soap. I water them leaves and all, and then go back out and water the bark and roots with plain water about 20 min later. That way it doesn't sit on the roots, but stays on the leaves, and flushes out the buglies.