Earwig Attraction:
Which Plants to Grow

Earwigs are insects that belong to the order Dermaptera. They are generally considered a nuisance due to their appearance and the damage they can cause to plants. However, earwigs are also beneficial insects that can help control pest populations in your garden. In this article, we will discuss which plants you can grow to attract earwigs and how they can benefit your garden.

Why Attract Earwigs?

Attracting earwigs to your garden can have multiple benefits. Earwigs feed on a variety of insects, including aphids and other plant pests. This makes them useful for controlling pest populations in your garden without the use of harmful pesticides. Additionally, earwigs can help with the decomposition of organic matter in your soil, making nutrients more available to your plants.

Plants That Attract Earwigs

1. Zinnias – These colorful flowers are a great addition to any garden and are known for attracting beneficial insects like earwigs. Zinnias come in a variety of colors and sizes, so you can choose the perfect one for your garden.

2. Sunflowers – Sunflowers are not only beautiful, but they also attract earwigs and other beneficial insects to your garden. They are easy to grow and come in many varieties, including dwarf and giant types.

3. Cosmos – Cosmos are another flower that earwigs love. They come in a range of colors and are easy to grow from seed, making them an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.

4. Yarrow – Yarrow is a hardy perennial that attracts a wide range of beneficial insects, including earwigs. It has clusters of small flowers that come in shades of pink, white, and yellow.

5. Dill – Dill is an herb that is attractive to both earwigs and butterflies. It has fern-like leaves and small yellow flowers that bloom in the summer.

Other Ways to Attract Earwigs

In addition to planting specific plants, there are other ways to attract earwigs to your garden. One method is to provide them with a suitable habitat. Earwigs like dark, damp places, so you can create hiding spots for them by placing overturned flower pots or damp newspaper in your garden.

Another way to attract earwigs is to provide them with a food source. You can do this by leaving out small amounts of fish meal, bran, or rolled oats in your garden. Earwigs will be attracted to the food and will stay in your garden to hunt for other insects.

FAQ

Q: Are earwigs harmful to my plants?

A: Earwigs can cause damage to plants by feeding on leaves, flowers, and fruits. However, they are also beneficial insects that can help control pest populations in your garden.

Q: Will earwigs harm me?

A: Earwigs are generally not harmful to humans. They have pincers on their abdomen but rarely use them for defense.

Q: How do I control an earwig infestation?

A: If you have an earwig infestation, you can use sticky traps or insecticides labeled for use on earwigs. However, it is important to remember that earwigs are beneficial insects and should only be controlled if they are causing significant damage to your plants.

In conclusion, attracting earwigs to your garden can have numerous benefits for both your plants and the environment. By planting specific flowers and providing suitable habitats, you can encourage these beneficial insects to reside in your garden and help control pest populations without the use of harmful pesticides.