Category: Other pests

Warmer seasons often bring many surprises that spring out of nowhere and begin their feast on plant leaves, stems, and fruit. Caterpillars are a problem that every respectable garden or farm keeper has to deal with. Though they might not be intimidating at first, these larvae can cause significant damage in the long run.

I’ve dealt with them before and know what it’s like to keep on looking for remedies and treatments against them. Today, I’d love to share some of my experience on how to get rid of caterpillars. Here we go!

Caterpillars and Consequences: How to Detect, Identify, and Treat

Before getting to the big guns, and learning how to kill caterpillars, it’s vital to understand what they are, where they come from, why they keep on appearing. All of this is strongly dependent on a caterpillar’s species, time of the year, as well as the food source they have found.

They can come in all varieties of sizes, shapes, and colors, which makes them rather difficult to have a grasp of. However, it all clears up once you get the basics about them. Now, let’s take a better look at the yet-to-be winged insects and learn how to deal with them.

What are caterpillars?

They are the second stage out of a four-stage lifecycle of Lepidoptera, which includes the common moth and butterfly. While the insect is only halfway through its transformation to become a moth or butterfly, it already possesses certain resemblances to its future form. Most of them are common for each species, while others may vary since there are around 200,000 different types.

Caterpillars, like Tent Caterpillars, are soft in their body and have a weak exoskeleton, which leads to their fragility and decreased movement speed. The body consists of the head, thorax, and belly. Just like a moth or butterfly, a larva has 2-6 pairs of eyes located on the top of the head with a little curve.

Interestingly, the caterpillar stage lasts for a shy of two weeks before it turns into a winged insect. Meanwhile, they are still the most voracious of all the lifecycle stages, requiring a constant flow of food and nutrients. They normally feed on plants, flowers, and vines.

What attracts caterpillars?

The major attractant for caterpillars is, of course, food. Though the larvae aren’t really picky about what they eat, they still have some preferences that cause them to run towards the source. For instance, Clover and Dogwood are the insect’s favorites.

Because caterpillars find the plants both full of nutrients and secure enough to lay their eggs, having Clover in your garden might be the reason for having a caterpillar infestation.

Moreover, the larvae do enjoy peace and brushes. Apparently, the insects always need to have a cozy place to store their eggs; and shady, tall grass is simply perfect for them. Also, it provides protection against birds and critters that may not only disturb their transformation but also devour them.

Caterpillar Damage

Before getting to the bottom of caterpillar removal, you have to understand that the larvae are virtually harmless to humans. However, considering their need for nutrients for transformation, insects can be a real threat to your crops and plants. Not only do they chew on leaves, but they can also harm the fruit and flowering, leading to the complete annihilation of your greens.

The primary food source for caterpillars is leaves. They are the easiest to get to and provide the larvae with a vital shade, protecting them from direct sunlight. Often, a population of caterpillar pests of cruciferous crops can defoliate a whole garden within a matter of 2-3 weeks and then move to the next patch.

Because the insects aren’t picky about eating the fruit either, I would always find a caterpillar in my house, hanging on my decorative lemon tree. Though I managed to get rid of the population with a couple of remedies, the insects left enough scarring to make the dwarf tree unappealing. Pity, since it was my favorite.

There are species, like Borers, that have a nasty habit of piling up their eggs near the stem. Once hatched, the small caterpillars begin to grind holes in the stem, tunneling it in and out, causing immeasurable damage to the tree. Therefore, it’s essential to apply real force to stop caterpillars from eating plants and trees before it’s too late.

How to get rid of caterpillars?

There are a couple of ways to get rid of caterpillars on plants without inflicting any damage on your plants. Some of them are more natural than others but all of them can guarantee positive results when used properly. You can:

• Apply water and dish soap.

Yes, this one is a remedy that has been around for a while. If you smear some soap solution on infested plants, it will make the surface hard to stick to, causing caterpillars and other insects to find another plant to feast on.

• Mix neem oil with lukewarm water and spray it over plants, trees, and flowers.

Unlike soap, neem oil is rather harmful to insects, affecting their airways and exoskeleton. It’s great to use in cases of heavy infestations when caterpillars have already done some damage to your patch.

• Use Bacillus (BT) to eliminate the pests.

BT is another organic component often extracted from the soil. It’s nice against caterpillars whose exoskeleton is soft enough to be penetrated. When used duly, the substance will affect the insect’s nervous system, causing starvation and death.

• Spray Pyrethrin to secure the perimeter.

Extracted from flowers, the element is a natural caterpillar insecticide that kills them on the spot. Make sure not to abuse it too much, it can harm vegetables.

• Attract birds by placing bird feeders.

Birds are voracious caterpillar fans and they will do an extra mile to consume them. Having birds on your property comes in handy for getting rid of caterpillars.

• Gather the insects by hand.

Though it takes quite some time, removing them manually is a proven method, helping with these little green worms eating plants.

How to prevent caterpillars?

Let’s see how to keep caterpillars out of the garden, house, or property.

Step 1: Inspect

Checking the plants for caterpillars and other insects should be a routine. Early detection can be a useful tool in preventing the larvae from spreading and infesting the area. Always look under the leaves and around the stem, where they like hiding from sunlight.

Step 2: Conduct preventative care

Using water and soap is most useful for ensuring that caterpillars won’t be able to climb all the way up. Spray the solution on leaves or wash up each plant softly without too much pressure. Do this regularly early in spring and throughout the whole summer.

Step 3: Show no mercy

Once you see a single caterpillar resting on the plant leaves, get rid of it instantly. If you allow even one insect to settle down in your patch or garden, there are great chances of them populating the whole area. Therefore, remove each caterpillar with no exceptions.

Step 4: Apply professional treatments

Sprays and pesticides aren’t solely meant to kill the existing insects but can be useful for the overall organic caterpillar control. Apply sprays to the leaves and let them dry for some time. Use pesticides, like Pyrethrin and BT to get rid of large insects since natural remedies are unlikely to work on them.

Step 5: Arrange some clutter

Caterpillars love peace and seclusion. By placing a couple of bird feeders, you can ensure constant trespassing by birds that will hunt the insects. Also, you can hang a couple of wind chimes to make some more noise.

Top 3 Best Caterpillar Treatments

If you’re wondering how to get rid of green caterpillars using professional treatments, I might be of assistance here. Throughout my practice, I’ve used many treatments for eliminating and preventing these worm-like insects. To take a load off your mind, here are a few proven treatments that know how to do their job.

1. Monterey B.t. Worm & Caterpillar Killer — Best Organic Caterpillar Killer Spray

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Monterey B.t. – Biological Insecticide for Organic…

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Specifications:

• Item Form: Spray
• Item Volume: 32 Fluid Ounces
• Item Weight: 2.27 pounds
• Product Dimensions: ‎ 5 x 3 x 9 inches
• Target Species: Caterpillars And Worm Type Insects, Such As Cabbage Looper, Bagworm, Gypsy Moth, Fall Cankerworm, Elm Spanworm And Many More

Organic and plant-friendly, the solution has no match when it comes to killing caterpillars and similar insects that have soft-haired skin. It’s completely approved by state pesticide bodies, like OMRI, which have testified that the treatment is safe for plant use.

Coming in two volume options, the product offers large coverage and requires very little preparatory work.

Because the treatment is based on B.t., it’s highly effective against insects at any caterpillar stage of development. Once sprayed on leaves and stems, the solution creates a residue that the insects consume with fiber. It causes their nervous system to shut down, leading to the inability to move, and, later, death from starvation.

2. BioAdvanced Systematic Plant Fertilizer and Insecticide — Best Caterpillar Insecticide for Trees

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BioAdvanced 12-Month Tree and Shrub Protect and…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredients: Imidacloprid 0.74%, Clothianidin 0.37%
• Item Volume: 32 fl. oz.
• Item Weight: 2.3 pounds
• Item Dimensions: ‎4.7 x 2.7 x 10.3 inches
• Target Species: Japanese Beetles, Emerald Ash Borers, Adelgids, Leafminers, Aphids, Caterpillars, and more

I love this product due to its versatility and promising results. The treatment is a blend of components that act both as a fertilizer for plants and trees and a pesticide that prevents caterpillars from spreading. Moreover, the effect isn’t limited to caterpillars but covers grown insects as well.

To activate the solution, it needs to be mixed with 2 gallons of water. The concoction is used for water both indoor and outdoor trees a couple of times a week. As a result, the treatment stays active for around a year to act as an organic caterpillar killer.

3. MgK PyGanic Gardening Insecticide — Best Pyrethrin Caterpillar Killer

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PyGanic Gardening 8oz, Botanical Insecticide…

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Specifications:

• Item Form: Spray
• Item Volume: 8 fl. oz.
• Item Weight: 0.6 Pounds
• Item Dimensions: ‎3 x 1.5 x 5 inches
• Target Species: More Than 200 Types Of Crop-Damaging Insects, Including Beetles, Mites, Roaches, And Ants

If you have a full-blown infestation, you need a stronger pesticide that can deal with caterpillars on the spot. Infused with Pyrethrin, the solution is lethal for the soft-skinned worms and kills them upon the first contact. Though the treatment is liquid, it can be applied in any season since it’s completely waterproof.

Harmless to plants, vegetables, and fruit, the product is applied as a spray by covering the tops and plants’ bottoms. When sprayed, it takes around 20 minutes for the product to begin killing caterpillars and lasts for around 12 hours. Normally, a week of regular reapplication should rid you of the insects for good.

FAQs

Have you got some more questions on how to get rid of caterpillars naturally? Check the following!

Does neem oil kill caterpillars?

Yes, it does. Neem oil is a natural caterpillar repellent because it possesses a limited range of toxicity that interacts with the caterpillar’s skin. Thus, leading to the caterpillar’s death.

Do caterpillars eat flowers?

It’s known that young caterpillars mainly chew on soft plant leaves since their biting apparatus is still underdeveloped. However, grown insects, especially Flowering Eating Caterpillar, are voracious and consume plant flowers and fruit.

How to stop caterpillars from climbing trees?

The best way to do so is to smear or spray the bark with a mixture of water and soap. It creates a slippery surface that caterpillars cannot cling to, causing them to fall every time they try. Don’t use any unproven pesticides to the bark since it can harm the tree.

What eats caterpillars?

There three main predators that pose a danger to caterpillars, i.e., birds, beetles, and wasps. All of them consume a large number of such insects due to their high levels of nutrients.

Butterflies or Not, Caterpillars Are No Pet for Your

Caterpillars cause no harm to humans due to their carnivorous nature. However, they might be a real growing pain when it comes to crops and pot plants.

Though we cannot blame them for simply trying to survive, allowing them to survive on our garden vegetables and flowers is not an option. To deal with the pests effectively, pick a treatment that suits your needs, like a spray or solution, and put it to action.

Anyway, I hope that after reading this article, you’ve found some useful information. What kind of treatments have you used before? Do you find natural remedies as effective as professional pesticides? Make sure to comment below!

References:

• Tent Caterpillars (Department of Environmental Conservation):https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7111.html
• Caterpillar Pests of Cruciferous Crops (Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs):
  http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/facts/99-035.htm
• Flower eating caterpillar (Queensland Government):
  https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/business-priorities/agriculture/plants/fruit-vegetable/insect-pests/flower-eating-caterpillar

Unlike the majority of pests, ladybugs look extremely friendly and cute. They can even be beneficial for your garden as they hunt aphids and spider mites. However, a ladybugs invasion can also be a huge problem if they get into your house and start replicating inside. The problem usually occurs when the bugs are trying to find shelter in the fall, but infestations may last year-round in some regions.

Read my guide to learn how to get rid of ladybugs in your house and be able to prevent re-infestations in the future. I provide comprehensive information about the pest and offer experience-based ladybug control advice along with the best remedy reviews.

What are Ladybugs

Ladybugs or lady beetles are beneficial garden insects that can exterminate spider mites and aphids. There are over 5,000 species of this cure insect around the world. The majority of them consume plant-eating insects, while just a few destroy plants.

Their bright color is a sign to other insects and animals that ladybugs taste awful (their secret tastes foul). Due to high survivability, ladybugs can live up to 2-3 years in the wild.

Ladybug Dangers

Fortunately for us, ladybugs aren’t poisonous to humans. However, some pets can be mildly poisoned if they eat a bug. That’s another reason for timely ladybugs removal from your house. If your pets get into an infestation, they can be harmed. On the other hand, it’s not likely to happen as animals don’t usually avoid eating red and orange creatures instinctively.

Although ladybugs are so friendly and helpful when they’re outside, they can cause some problems if they aggregate inside your house. They’re not noticed to carry diseases, but allergic reactions to their secret may occur.

The signs of ladybug allergy usually include wheezing, itchy skin and eyes, hives, and cough. Ladybug bites aren’t very harmful and feel more like a pinch, but allergic reactions are definitely nasty.

What Attracts Ladybugs in Your House

Sometimes an infestation may start because ladybugs migrate into your house from under the siding of your house or apartment. This usually happens when the insects feel that it’s warmer inside, and the way inside can be found.

Old houses are more exposed to such infestations as they have more cracks around doors, windows, rooftops, etc.

If you see that ladybugs try to settle down in your house in the winter, it means that they couldn’t find a better place to hibernate during the cold season. They usually choose light-colored houses as they look warmer, especially if exposed to the southwestern sun.

Signs of Ladybug Infestation

One or two ladybugs aren’t always a sign of an infestation as they may simply get lost away from their main congregation. But if an infestation begins, the congregations may grow up to 15,000 bugs. If you want to check your entire house for signs of an infestation, it’s a good idea to inspect ceilings, windowpanes, cracks in sidings and crevices, door jams, foundations, gaps behind the walls, etc.

They usually look for warm and secure locations to hibernate until it gets warmer outside. If you don’t notice the congregations in the winter season, you will definitely see ladybugs flying and crawling around the entire house in the spring. No the best thing to happen, so to say.

Other signs of an infestation are multiple yellow stains around your property. Their secretion has a distinctive foal smell. It can be found virtually anywhere, and it’s usually very hard to remove such stains from fabrics, walls, and paint.

How to Control Ladybugs

Getting rid of ladybugs inside your property can be quite difficult as the remedies are limited. The easiest method to remove an average congregation is to remove it with a vacuum cleaner. When the work is done, you should dispose of bugs away from your house. This method is quite safe. I noticed that vacuuming doesn’t make the bugs bleed reflectively.

Other ways to get rid of a ladybug infestation include:

• Light traps – this type of trap attracts ladybugs with bright light and traps them inside so that you can dispose of them safely later on;
• Diatomaceous earth – this all-natural pesticide causes the bugs to die of dehydration;
• Sticky traps – this kind of traps attract lady beetles with a tasty smell.

But what about insecticides? According to the Environmental Protection Agency, pesticides may impact indoor air quality, so the best solution is to avoid indoor use.

On the other hand, I know several remedies that have soft but effective compositions that are designed for indoor use. Precautions are necessary to keep the dangers of using indoor ladybug treatment low. Harris Ladybug killer is an excellent solution. See my experience-based review below.

How to Prevent Ladybugs in Future

After treating the infestation successfully, you should stop ladybugs from coming into the house in the future. Here are some of the best practices that will help you to prevent reinfestations:

• Make repair works during the warm season. I recommend you seal any cracks, check all the window screens, and inspect your roof, foundation, and siding to fix any visible damage.
• Clean surfaces with citrus oil. This will help you to get rid of ladybug scents. Ladybugs won’t be able to find a way back to your house if you remove their traces.
• Lavender – this plant has a nice scent, but ladybugs don’t like it at all. Use it as a repellent.
• Bay leaves and cloves – put them around the house or plant outside.
• Mums – these flowers are deadly for ladybugs but safe for your pets and children. You can plant them around the house year-round to deter ladybugs.

Top 3 Best Ladybugs Treatments

Here are the most useful lady beetle treatments that you can order at the moment to stop the infestation in your house quickly. Each of these products has been tested multiple times on infestations of different levels.

1. BUGGSLAYER Insecticide Concentrate – Best Outdoor Ladybug Killer

Bugg Insecticide – Concentrate – Outdoor Box Elder…

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Specifications:

• Item Form: Liquid
• Item Volume: 16 Fluid Ounces
• Item Weight: 9 ounces
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 1.8 x 3.8 x 7.4 inches
• Target Species: lder Bugs, Stink Bugs, Asian Lady Beetles, Ants, Spiders and many other common insect pests

Buggslayer Insecticide has a rough formula that wards off over 50 species, including ladybugs, stink bugs, and the most severe Asian lady beetles. You can use this contact insecticide to create a barrier around your property. I recommend you treat areas around the windows, doors, roofing, and foundation.

Unlike the ladybug secretion, this remedy doesn’t leave any stains on surfaces and doesn’t smell at all. This remedy is also highly cost-effective. You should mix only 4 ounces of the liquid to 1 gallon of tap water to achieve the needed effect.

At the same time, the dry water-based solution cannot be washed away with rainwater and humid air. A single treatment will remain effective for 3-4 weeks. If the climate in your area isn’t too humid, the effect may last up to 6 months. In this case, you should treat the area only twice a year.

If a bug tries to cross a treated area, it doesn’t die immediately. Instead, the microcrystals stick to its body and intoxicate it to death in 1-4 hours, depending on the specie and concentration of the solution.

I recommend this outdoor treatment for all cases of outdoor infestations and for keeping ladybugs away from your home. Use it following the instruction and renew the treatment when you notice breaches. It’s also a good solution to fix the cracks in your house, along with treating the area regularly.

2. HARRIS Asian Lady Beetle Killer – Best Indoor Ladybug Killer

Harris Asian Lady Beetle and Box Elder Killer,…

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Specifications:

• Item Form: Spray
• Item Volume: 32 Fluid Ounces
• Item Weight: 2.42 Pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 5 x 3 x 12 inches
• Target Species: Lady Beetles

Harris is a trusted American manufacturer of pest control solutions. They provide their 1-gallon indoor ladybug killer with a convenient trigger sprayer and an extension pipe so that you can spray the liquid with one hand and hold the bottle in another at the same time.

The composition of the remedy is secure for the household as it doesn’t attract pets with odors and doesn’t cause respiratory problems. I recommend reviewing the composition to see if you don’t have an allergic reaction to any of the components to make sure that it’s totally safe for you.

While the spray is odorless, it also doesn’t leave stains on any material so that you can treat infested surfaces (including fabrics) all around the house. The Environmental Protection Agency officially allows residential usage of this remedy, so there’s no need to worry.

You should spray it in the basement, ventilation, under the furniture, and under the roofing to achieve the needed protection for several weeks. The spray starts working when it dries completely. It takes around 2 hours to dry.

Before that, you should keep all the pets and children away from the treated area.

The brand also claims that the spray can be used outside, but you’d better get the Buggslayer for that as the killer by HARRIS doesn’t stand the rain, and it’s not concentrated, which means you will finish the bottle much faster.

It’s also not very efficient if you apply it on south-facing walls as direct sunlight makes the product ineffective. That’s why I recommend purchasing both solutions if the level of the infestation requires indoor and outdoor treatment.

3. Catchmaster 72MAX Pest Trap – Best Glue Ladybug Trap

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Catchmaster Max-Catch Mouse & Insect Glue Trap…

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Specifications:

• Color: White
• Scent: Peanutbutter
• Item Weight: 11.2 Ounces
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 8.5 x 5.25 x 0.05 inches
• Target Species: Mice, Snakes, Crickets, Bats, Fleas, Ticks, Mites, Lice, Roaches, Brown Recluse Spiders and other potentially disease transmitting insects

The Max Catch glue trap by Catchmaster is a simple and effective way to attract and trap ladybugs. The trap consists of cardboard coated with non-drying glue and a peanut butter aromatizer. You can either put the cardboard on the floor flat or fold it to make a box. Put it near an infestation, and just look at how bugs start crawling towards the sweet thing.

How to kill ladybugs after you catch them? They will stick inside so that you can just throw away the board when it’s full. There’s no need to kill them. However, I recommend treating the house with some natural repellents to get rid of the ladybug scent that attracts new insects. This item is recommended for indoor use only, and you should place it only if you’re sure that your pets won’t stick to it.

FAQ

Still have questions? Here are concise answers to the most frequently asked questions about ladybugs from my readers and customers. Take a quick look through them to make sure you know everything.

Why are there ladybugs in my house?

First of all, lady beetles and other insects get into your house because they can! It means that your dwelling has breaches somewhere. Second, they feel that it’s warmer inside than outside, so they start migrating if there’s an opportunity for that. Combine these two reasons, and you will understand why ladybugs infest your house in the winter.

Where do ladybugs nest?

Ladybugs always choose secure and warm places to nest. You can usually find them here:

• Ceilings;
• Windowpanes;
• Cracks in sidings and crevices;
• Door jams;
• Foundations;
• Gaps behind the walls.

Why do ladybugs stink?

According to ladybugs smell studies by Iowa State University, the noxious ladybug odor is due to 38 compounds, with DMMP and IPMP playing the major role. These beetles need the smell to give a threatening signal to other animals and ward them off in case of danger. If an animal tries to eat a ladybug, it will feel a disgusting taste.

Does diatomaceous earth kill ladybugs?

Yes, diatomaceous earth is a powerful natural ladybug extermination remedy. It causes bugs to dry and die quite fast. It may not be similarly effective against other insects, but lady beetles rarely survive it.

What repels ladybugs the best?

The most effective ladybug repellents include:

• Citrus and citronella oils;
• Lavender;
• Bay leaves and cloves;
• Mums;
• Absence of breaches to sneak in through.

Bye, Ladybug!

Now you know how to get rid of and keep ladybugs away from your home in a number of relatively simple ways. If the situation gets tough inside, try Harris Asian Beetle Killer and a Catchmaster trap. For outdoor use, I recommend BUGGSLAYER Insecticide Concentrate. Stick to instructions and my advice, and you will definitely succeed.

Is it the first time you have a ladybug infestation? If not, what did you do to fight the previous one? Share your experience, and we’ll discuss the problem together in the comments section below.

If you are facing an Asian ladybug infestation, you should take a look at my guide on the topic. For more tips and experience-based product reviews, keep clicking my website.

References:

• Pesticides’ Impact on Indoor Air Quality (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency):
  https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/pesticides-impact-indoor-air-quality
• U.S. EPA, Pesticides, Label, Harris Home Pest Control (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Washington):
  https://www3.epa.gov/pesticides/chem_search/ppls/000003-00011-20110510.pdf
• Why do Ladybugs Smell Bad? (Iowa State University):
  https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1231&context=abe_eng_conf

Once you notice grubs on your lawn, you have to act immediately using the best grub killer in order to save it. Usually, those who suffer from these tiny but dangerous for the yard grubs have no idea how to deal with them. For starters, these creatures dwell under the ground, and their home is not easy to find.

They are small and leave tiny trails which may stay completely unnoticed until they eat all the grass around, as they feed on grassroots. Thus, the most reliable way to make sure that you have these pests on your land is to dig the lawn and find them. If grubs are there, you have to get rid of them, and I am here to help.

Product

Best Gub Killer

Runner Up

Title

Scotts GrubEx1 Season Long Grub Killer, Protects Lawns Up to 4 Months, 10,000 sq. ft., 28.7 lbs

ST. Gabriel Organics – Milky Spore Granular Natural Bacteria Japanese Beetle Grub Killer Lawn and…

Price

$54.97

$126.00

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Pros

Savvy Pack.

Children and pet safe.

My review

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Best Gub Killer

Product

Title

Scotts GrubEx1 Season Long Grub Killer, Protects Lawns Up to 4 Months, 10,000 sq. ft., 28.7 lbs

Price

$54.97

Prime

Pros

Savvy Pack.

My review

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Runner Up

Product

Title

ST. Gabriel Organics – Milky Spore Granular Natural Bacteria Japanese Beetle Grub Killer Lawn and…

Price

$126.00

Prime

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Pros

Children and pet safe.

My review

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Top 5 Best Grub Killers

Getting rid of grubs may be a tough task, as these creatures prefer to hide under the ground. Feeding on the grassroots, they can stay on the lawn for months, until it is too late. I have gathered here my top 5 favorite killers that act splendidly on any type of lawn. Check out their description and find out what is the best treatment for grubs in your yard.

1. Bonide Insect and Grub Control – The Best Grub Treatment for Above and Below the Surface

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Bonide (BND60360) – Insect and Grub Control,…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredients: Imidacloprid – 0.5%, Lambda-cyhalothrin – 0.1%
• Item Form: Granules
• Item Weight: 6 Pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 3.8 x 14.8 x 15 inches
• Target Pest: Ants, except Carpenter and Pharaoh Ants, Crickets, Fire Ants, Chinch Bugs, Armyworms (Fall and Yellow-striped), Billbugs, Cutworms, Earwigs, Fleas, Roaches (German & American), Grubs, Sod webworms, European Crane Flies, Ticks and other listed Insects

This product kills versatile pests both above and under the ground. It kills grubs, roaches, ants, crickets, billbugs, chinch bugs, fleas. It acts quickly after you spread it, killing grubs and other insects. To avoid the appearance of new insects, you can reapply the killer after 3 months.

During these 3 months, it stays active on the lawn. I recommend you to use it on your lawn and near the foundation of the house.

Bonide is the company that develops pest killers and protects American yards since 1926. They guarantee simple application. You have to spread granules on the territory you believe is invaded by grubs. The killer contains Imidacloprid and Lambda-Cyhalothrin as active components. Keep this killer far from the children and pets. Protect your skin and face while applying the product.

2. Scotts GrubEx – The Leader Among Long Distance Lawn Grub Killers

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Scotts GrubEx1 Season Long Grub Killer, Protects…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredients: Chlorantraniliprole 0.08%
• Provides Protection For 4 Months
• Treats up to 10,000 sq. ft., 28.7 lb.
• Item Weight: 28.7 pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 20 x 13.25 x 5 inches

This product kills white grubs, caterpillars, chinch bug, and larvae of billbug, cranefly, and Japanese beetle. If you are not sure about the classification of white warms you see near the roots of the lawn grass, use this killer as it is universal.

It is recommended to apply the product in spring or at the beginning of summer. Active ingredients will immediately kill grubs, and prevent others from settling down on your lawn for the next 4 months. The turf stays undamaged.

This GrubEx is made by Scotts, the company that takes care of the grass on your lawn. They are well known in the USA and abroad, founded in 1868 by a farmer. This killer is 25 times more effective than the original GrubEx.

However, prepare to use the spreaders of Scotts company designed specifically for this item. I recommend buying a 10 000 sq ft pack, which is savvy, especially if you need to repeat the procedure or have big territories to cover. After you spread the granules with a spreader, you have to water the lawn. Once water is dried, people and animals can safely walk there.

3. St Gabriel Organics Milky Spore – Effective and Pet Safe Grub Killer for Your Lawn

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ST. Gabriel Organics – Milky Spore Granular…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredients: Spores of Bacillus Popilliae 0.02%
• Item Form: Powder
• Item Weight: 20 Pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 5 x 18 x 36 inches
• Coverage Area: 20 lbs. will Treat 7,000 square feet

This granular grub killer suits lawn owners who have pets and children running in the yard. The pack consists of a 20 lb milky spore mix. Apart from grubs, it also kills Japanese Beetles and versatile larvae. Depending on the type of insect, you can apply this mix from early spring to fall. It is recommended to use a spreader for better results.

This killer has 7 000 sq ft coverage radius and will serve you for up to 20 years. St. Gabriel Organics company offers a 10 years warranty. Since 1973 they produce children and pet safe measures for killing insects in your yard. To raise the effect, it is recommended to spread the mix every 3-4 feet distance.

4. BioAdvanced Grub Control – The Best Grub Control Product with 24 Hours Action

No products found.

Specifications:

• Active Ingredients: Trichlorfon 9.3% 
• Coverage Area: Treats up to 5,000 square feet
• Item Weight: 9.97 pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 19 x 12 x 1 inches
• Target Pest: Ants, Ticks, Billbugs, Chinch Bugs, Crickets, Cutworms, Earwigs, Grasshoppers, and more

This killer works quickly and effectively. It kills all the grubs in one day after it was spread. The main ingredient of the product is Dylox, which kills insects after the contact. Apart from grubs, this measure works well for chinch bugs, billbugs, ants, crickets, ticks, grasshoppers, and earwigs. You don’t have to wait for several days to notice the difference. The standard pack is 10 pounds.

Developers of this bug killer recommend using these granules in spring when grubs just awoke from winter. You can re-apply it in the fall, to prevent the appearance of new grubs from eggs. To apply the killer, use a spreader. Make sure that the lawn is completely covered.

One pack can work on 5 000 sq ft. BioAdvanced company offers versatile insecticides and bug killers for your lawn. They recommend using gloves and protective glasses while you are spreading the killer.

5. Sevin Ready to Use Grub Killer Dust

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GARDENTECH Dust Bug Killer Multiple Insects Rtu…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredient: Carbaryl 5%
• Ready-to-Use 5% Dust
• Item Weight: 1 pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 16.5 x 3.3 x 8.8 inches
• Target Pest: Fall Armyworm, Japanese Beetle, Flea Beetles, Leaf Hoppers Stink Bugs, Raspberry Maggot, Blueberry Aphid, Blister Beetles, Boxelder Bugs, Lace Bugs, Psyllids, Leafrollers, Tent Caterpillars, Thrips, Millipedes, Sod Webworms, Ticks, Earwigs, Ants and others

This dust kills multiple species of small insects, including grubs. According to developers, it determinates over 65 types of insects. The offer is suitable for everyone who has a large territory to take care of.

This killer is already good for use. I still recommend you to wear gloves while applying it on the grass. All you need is to open the bottle with the killer and spread the substance. That’s all. The bottle is easy to hold.

The main ingredients of the killer are zeta-cypermethrin and bifenthrin. These insecticides are non-systemic and are not absorbed by the plant itself. When insects contact these ingredients, they die. Sevin is a well-known brand that produces insecticides and killers for yard pests.While getting rid of all small creatures that are unwelcome in your yard, it also offers plant protection .

Important Information on Grubs

Grubs are small larvae of a beetle that lives in the ground. It rarely comes out on the surface, feeding on the roots of the grass. It is colored in white or creamy shades with a dark brown head.

Usually, they prefer to curl into the shape of a C letter. Before you buy any of the killers I reviewed, you have to make sure that it is grubs you are dealing with. Here you can find the answers on how to kill grubs, while almost all of the killers I recommend are suitable for multiple insects.
Why grubs are dangerous for your garden?

After we have already discussed what kills grubs, let’s talk about why we have to kill them anyway. I have to say that all experienced gardeners who were unlucky to find grubs on their territory are not particular fans of these insects. Grubs do not spread diseases or bite people.

However, they eat the grass on the lawn. They feed on the roots and can exterminate huge territories. Once they turn into beetles, there will be another problem, as they will crawl up onto the surface, destroying your harvest and breeding.

How to get rid of grubs without poisoning your pets

The most used variant of getting rid of grubs is to spread killers on the land. Since most of them contain active chemicals, it is recommended to work in gloves and glasses. Most of the killers work actively for 24 hours. After that, they can act as a preventive measure, but they are not that harmful to dogs and people. Just don’t forget to irrigate the lawn to prevent the grass from burning down.

If you are worried about your pets that can’t leave the lawn even for a day, pick eco-friendly Milky Spore by St Gabriel Organics I’ve mentioned on the list. It is harmless to other creatures except for small insects.

How to use different grubs treatments

Usually, grub killers are produced in granules or dust. They all are simple to spread and all developers of the killers attach brief instructions. No matter whether the killer is organic or not, these are common rules. Here are a few simple steps you have to memorize on how to treat for grubs:

• Choose the perfect timing. The middle of spring and the beginning of summer is the most suitable period for applying insecticides. Grubs just awake from the winter, and still did not turn into the beetles;
• Wear protective gloves and glasses, no matter whether you use chemicals or natural products. They will protect your skin from itching and allergic reaction, and your eyes from irritation;
• Use a spreader to apply granules. If you have a dust killer, you can use specific dusters. Some bottles are already made for easy applying, like Sevin Ready to Use Dust;
• Cover all the territory with the product;
• Don’t irrigate the lawn for 24 hours.

How to prevent grubs in your yard in the future

Preventive measures are considered the most effective against grubs. They protect the lawn from the appearance of new grubs by the extermination of old grubs and beetles. In my top-5 favorite products list, I specifically mentioned universal killers that take care of all the insects, from their grubs and larvae to adult species.

Almost all of them stay active for several months and kill pests that can settle down on the former habitat of grubs you’ve got rid of. To protect your lawn from the new grubs, I recommend re-applying the killer two times a year.

After you killed pests in spring/early summer season, it is important to spread the product on your lawn at the end of July. This way new grubs will not appear from hatches of eggs. Beetles will not have enough time to lay eggs.

The Widespread Questions about Grubs

I have gathered several questions that you may have had. I advise you to get familiar with them before you buy grub killers. You can also check users’ reviews if you have more specific questions for some of the products that will help you with white grubs in home lawns.

How to tell if you have grubs?

• Check out whether you have these signs of infestation:
• The grass is getting brown in random spots. Your lawn looks like a jaguar;
• Birds, skunks, raccoons visit your lawn more often. It looks like they have found a source of food there;
• The grass feels like a sponge while you are walking on it;
• The increased amount of beetles near your lawn.

When to treat lawn for grubs?

It is extremely important to find the perfect time when to put down grub killer. That depends on what you want to do. Usually, we notice grubs at the end of spring or at the beginning of summer.

If you are wondering when to apply grub control products, I recommend you act immediately and not to wait for grubs to turn into beetles or there will be more problems. Experienced gardeners spread the remedy in Spring. To make sure that grubs will not appear again, they re-apply the killer in July or August, before adult beetles lay eggs.

Why are grubs dangerous?

Grubs in lawns are not deadly dangerous, as you may wonder. They are not contagious. These small creatures may look ugly, as they are definitely not colorful butterflies, but grubs are not dangerous for people. However, they are harmful to the grass on the lawn. Besides, if you don’t get rid of them in time, these insects quickly turn into beetles and can cause damage to bigger territories.

Finding the Perfect Killer

Grubs are the menace you have to deal with in your yard. It is not mission impossible, and what is more important, even a complete newbie can deal with it. I believe I have provided all the instructions necessary for this and described my top favorite products that will definitely help you with this task.

Based on your personal preferences like eco-friendliness, organic active ingredients, long-lasting effect, trusted developers, and suitable price, you can pick the one you need.

If you have tried some of these killers before, please share your opinion in the comments below. How do you like it? Was the killer effective?

References:

• Grubs in Lawns (Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs):
  http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/facts/08-023w.htm
• How to choose and when to apply grub control products for your lawn (Michigan State University):
  https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/how_to_choose_and_when_to_apply_grub_control_products_for_your_lawn
• How do I treat for grubs in my lawn? (University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension):
  https://extension.unh.edu/blog/how-do-i-treat-grubs-my-lawn

When we see earwigs, we might be terrified by their pincers. But they do not hurt humans at all and use pincers for protection. However, people do not like to have any type of infestation inside or near their houses. This article will teach you some useful tricks and define effective solutions for how to get rid of earwigs.

Basic Info about Bugs with Pincers

Here’s what you should learn about the insects you plan to fight. It is important to be aware of their appearance, habitat, and lifestyle to keep them away effectively.

Earwig Identification

Earwigs are insects with pincers or forceps, which are growing from their abdomen. This feature adds a weird look to them. Depending on the species, the sizes of these insects may vary from 5-25 mm. They also have two pairs of wings on their body.

Earwigs are usually black or brown, sometimes with stripes or reddish heads and limbs. They may seem like cockroaches, but you can tell the difference. Earwigs have six legs and pincers, and they do not spread as fast as roaches.

Earwigs are night insects that eat other insects, sometimes moss, fungi, or lichens. Also, they can consume organic materials like mulch, piles, or leaves. During the day, they hide. At the same time, these insects are attracted to light. For habitat, they mostly prefer wet and quiet areas. If the conditions are too good for them, earwigs can spread around the garden and provoke infestation.

Sure, a bug with pincers might look scary. However, earwigs do not carry any poison or diseases. The main concern about these insects is superstitious that they can crawl into your ears.

What Are Earwigs Attracted to in Your Yard or House

As I have said, earwigs are active at night, and they tend to stay in warm and moist places. In your yard, insects can be spotted under pots, rocks, or in the piles, mulch, and wooden litter. They can also live under the porches and homes.

They can sneak to the house in search of a warm and damp environment, especially when the weather is chilly and dry. They often hang out near the leaking pipes or arrange their habitat in the A/C unit. Basements with high humidity and garden faucets are one of the most popular places among earwigs.

What are earwigs attracted to apart from the pleasant living conditions? These insects seek food sources – the materials with cellulose, which are declining. In the yard, it can be a mulch or leaf litter. Also, earwigs do not live on plants only. They often eat worms, decaying insects, and even animals.

But in the buildings, they might find it tasty to crawl to the stacks of old books, boxes, or other paper materials. In the kitchen, sweet or greasy products will be their attraction.

How to Get Rid of Earwigs in Your Territory

The procedure of getting rid of earwigs consists of two main parts.

Step 1. Identifying earwigs

To identify these landscape pests, you need to spot brown-reddish insects, which are 3/4-inch long with pincers. They can also fly sometimes. As they prefer decaying materials as their food, you can detect them near wooden or leaf litter.

However, in some cases, they can consume living plants, fruits, and vegetables. Female insects lay their eggs underground for protection, so it is complicated to find them and prevent infestation. Check the places where these pests can hide, like under the pots or in the basements. They are active at night, so they will seek hiding places near the source of food.

Step 2. Applying natural and chemical treatment

Now let’s deal with the problem of how to exterminate earwigs. As soon as you have detected the signs of infestation, you can apply one of the following treatments:

• Attract birds

The birds might assist you with an infestation, as they like to eat insects and earwigs in particular. Bring birds to your yard with some feeders. They will start coming to your place regularly, attacking pests in your garden. This is the safest and messless way to get rid of insects.

• Set oil and soy sauce traps

In case of a minor level of infestation, you can trap the insects with the DIY traps. You will need a jar or a container with a lid. Mix the equal parts of vegetable oil and soy sauce.

Make small holes in the lid suitable for earwigs to enter and place the container under the ground leaving the top at the ground level. The insects will be attracted by the smell of the sauce, but the oil will not let them crawl up.

• Apply alcohol spray

This contact spray is made of 70% Isopropyl Alcohol and water, mixed in equal proportions. Spray it around your home, its foundation, or in the garden near flowerbeds and trees. The alcohol will ruin insects’ shells, killing them. It is allowed to use the mixture at home, but be careful with plants.

• Use diatomaceous earth

This product is used for dealing with digestive issues, and it leads to loss of moisture. But for small creatures, it is too strong. Spread the thin layer of this treatment in your garden or yard. As soon as the pests crawl on it, the earth starts sucking the water out of them, and the small sharp particles will damage their shells. This works with earwigs and other garden pests.

• Spread the neem oil

This natural insecticide contains a chemical called Azadirachtin, which prevents insects from growing up and breeding. It also affects their feeding habits, so they die. To apply this method, you need to mix this oil with warm water and apply the mixture in the yard, garden, and at the entry points of your house.

Pay more attention to the dark and moist areas. Repeat this 2-3 times a week to achieve results.

• Use chemical insecticides

In case any of the previous methods do not work, you can apply harsh chemical insecticides. However, keep in mind that it is a short-term solution for fast action. To maintain the result, you should apply safer options after.

Common insecticide ingredients

Most chemical insecticides contain deltamethrin and cyfluthrin as active ingredients, which are known to be the most effective ways to keep earwigs away. They are allowed to be used outside for creating a barrier for pests.

Also, some products may be based on bifenthrin, synthetic pyrethrin, or natural components and repellents.

Top 5 Best Earwigs Treatments

You might be overwhelmed with the selection of treatments used for earwig control measures. I have decided to help you in choosing the right option for your home or garden. Below you will find 5 best options for cleaning your territory from the earwigs and other pests.

1. Best Earwig Killer from Rockwell Labs: LambdaStar Insecticide

Rockwell Labs LGLU016 LambdaStar UltraCap 9.7%…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredient: Lambda-Cyhalothrin 9.7%
• Item Form: Liquid, Spray
• Item Weight: 1.26 pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 2.05 x 4.25 x 7.85 inches
• Target Species: Ants, Bedbugs (adults and nymphs), Bees, Boxelder Bugs, Carpenter Bees, Carpet Beetles, Centipedes, and others

This is the best earwig insecticide, which you can apply both inside and outside your home. It adheres to the surfaces ensuring long-term protection from various bugs and pests. It has an easy-to-mix formula, which also increases its effectiveness.

This is the best earwig killer considering results. The minor complaint is that it might leave stains if it is not dissolved properly.

2. Best Earwig Killer: Diatomaceous Earth

DiatomaceousEarth 10 LBS Food Grade Diatomaceous…

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Specifications:

• 100% Organic
• No Contaminants
• Item Form: Powder
• Item Weight: 10.3 pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 16 x 9 x 7 inches

Diatomaceous Earth is known as one of the best natural killers. It contains only 100% food-grade organic components. That is why you should not worry; it will contaminate the soil. Apart from being an effective anti-bug treatment, this product has a wide range of applications.

Famous for effective killing pincher bugs, this product might attract some insects before killing them eventually.

3. Earwig Trap from Bell: Trapper Insect Trap

Trapper Insect Trap (Great for Bed Bugs, Spiders,…

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Specifications:

• Color: White
• Material: Cardboard
• Item Weight: 0.48 Pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 9.15 x 8.4 x 0.6 inches
• Target Species: Insects

These non-poisonous traps capture the insects, and they die being glued. You can use this product as one large trap or divide it into three smaller ones. Just stick the trap in the place where pests are spotted and wait until they are collected. There is a plank area on the trap where you can write down the date and the location for monitoring.

But keep in mind that any earwig trap will attract the insects first, so do not place it if there are not any obvious signs of infestation.

4. Earwig Control from MG Chemicals: Isopropyl Alcohol Spray

MG Chemicals 99.9% Isopropyl Alcohol Electronics…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredient: Isopropyl Alcohol 
• Item Form: Luquid, Spray
• Item Volume: 16 fl. oz.
• Item Weight: 15.87 Ounces
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 3 x 3 x 9 inches

fighting bugs outside as well as inside. You just need to dissolve the alcohol with water. This is one of the less toxic chemical treatments, which does not harm soil and water.

The side effect of this pincher bug killer spray is that it can harm some plants when applied in the garden. To make sure your plants are safe, try the mixture on the small leaf and wait for a day to see what will be the response.

5. Natural Earwig Repellent from Neem Bliss: Neem Seed Oil

Neem Bliss (16 Fl Oz) – Pure Neem Oil Concentrate…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredient: Neem Oil 100% 
• Material Feature: Organic
• Item Volume: 16 fl. oz. 
• Package Weight: 1 pounds
• Package Dimensions LxWxH: 5.91 x 3.98 x 1.93 inches

If you want to repel insects with completely natural treatment, the neem oil is your choice. It is easy to use as it needs only warm water to create a spray mixture. It is a natural repellent, which is safe for the environment and biodegradable. Neem oil works against numerous insects.

Being a natural earwig repellent, neem oil is also known as a strong allergen. So do not apply it near pets, children, or in places with bad ventilation.

How to prevent earwigs in your yard in the future

After applying one of the treatments, you might see the results and feel relaxed. However, pests can get back as soon as the insecticide effect ends. That is why you should take preventive measures as well to keep insects away.

In the yard and garden, you should do regular cleaning up. Get rid of old logs, piles, and decorative stones, especially if they are near the house foundation. Also, maintain this area dry and mulch free, taking away dry leaves and other organic materials. Trim trees and bushes by cutting the dry and dead branches.

Make sure there is a decent drainage system around your house. Eliminate the number of outdoor lights in order not to attract insects. Prevent pests from crawling inside by placing the repair screens on vents. Set the dehumidifier in the damp basement.

Now you also know how to repel earwigs from your yard and home.

FAQ About Earwig Control

Here’s more information about earwigs and how to deal with them.

Why do I have so many earwigs in my house?

Earwigs enter your house for the following reasons:

• They look for more comfortable conditions when the weather changes;
• They are attracted with the light outside and inside the house;
• They are spreading near the foundation and gradually enter your house.

What will kill earwigs?

When the preventive methods do not work, and the level of infestation is growing, learn how to kill earwigs with fast-working chemical insecticides.

There are a lot of options but focus more on treatments that have the following active ingredients: azadirachtin, diatomaceous earth, bifenthrin, pyrethrins, etc. Usually, they come in the form of a spray, which you should apply near the plants or other areas where their habitat is.

Are earwigs harmful to humans?

They might look scary because of pincers, but they are completely harmless to humans. They will not sting or bite you, and they do not carry any poison. They also will not crawl into your ears, despite the common beliefs.

What can I do about earwigs in my house?

Apply the suitable treatment in case of serious infestation, clean the yard, and apply solutions there if you spot the pests. Maintain the cleanness of your dwelling and the territory. Keep the basement clean and dry as well.

Find Your Best Way to Get Rid of Pincher Bugs

Despite the absence of danger from earwigs, hardly any of us wants to have an uncontrolled infestation of any kind. That is why it is important to take measures as soon as you spot any signs of damage. There are many solutions, so you can find the best way to get rid of pincher bugs that will be effective in your case.

How do you fight the earwigs and other pests in your yard and home? Share the most effective solutions according to your experience.

References:

• Pests of Landscape Plants (College of Agriculture, Food and Environment):
  https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/landscape
• Diatomaceous Earth (Oregon State University):
  http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/degen.html

I think no such small insects as camel crickets may cause such huge damage. They can eat almost anything. That’s why you should know how to get rid of cave crickets in your house for sure. Luckily, there are many suitable methods to provide this. Today, I will tell you about the best products on the market and offer a step-by-step guide on how to get rid of spider crickets.

Due to my experience, not all tools are safe and effective. The insecticides I will describe are proved to kill insects quickly; however, they need to be applied in the right way. So, let’s start our exploration.

1. Set the glue trap. The active ingredient is safe for humans, but it is better to do this using gloves.
2. Spray dust to destroy Spider Crickets. This product should be used with a hand or power duster.
3. Use insecticides.
4. Keep your basements closed.
5. Use the insecticides as a preventive method.

Stop the Crickets Songs in Your House

Spider crickets are a noisy little neighbor. But, thanks to this, you can find the method of how to kill cave crickets quickly. Here are some recommendations before you start.

What are spider crickets?

You may wonder why are spider crickets in my house. Spider or camel crickets are small insects that get in your house when it becomes cold outside. When people see a cave cricket, they may think it’s a spider because of the small body and long legs. However, if you look closer, they have only six paws. They’re about two inches in length.

What attracts spider crickets?

If spider crickets get in your house, they will taste everything you have there. The insects search for the warm and moist place. During the day, they may hide inside your cupboard, but when the night comes, they start looking for the light. Crickets don’t have a permanent place of residence – be ready that you may find them everywhere.

Spider cricket damage

Field crickets like to chew all the items they can reach, especially if they’re made of clothing or wood. If you keep your clothes or blankets in the wardrobe, the insects will eat them for sure. They’re not dangerous for humans. Nevertheless, a huge population inside your house may be a big problem.

Signs of a cave cricket infestation

Crickets are a common nuisance around the home. First of all, you will see the insects themselves. They’re nocturnal creatures – it will be more complicated to take a look at them during the day. Also, you may find clothing with holes. Wood, carpets, and other fabrics will also be chewed – it is the result of the camelback cricket infestation. If there is a large population in your house, you will also find their droppings. In most cases, they will be on walls or floor.

How to Get Rid of Spider Crickets

The best way to kill cave crickets is to apply the insecticide and repellent. There are several types, and we will observe each one.

Glue trap

The most popular product is a glue trap. It is a thin pellet that is made of the scented glue. You need to place the pellets in different places, where the insects are most likely to appear. The active ingredient is safe for humans, but it is better to do this using gloves.

Spider crickets will smell a nice odor and die because of the glue trap. This tool is quite effective if you need to get rid of camel crickets in the attics or basements.

Dust

This product should be used with a hand or power duster. You should mix it with water and apply it in a proportion of 0.5 lbs. per 1000 square feet. Before you start, you should check if the duster is filled only halfway. It is important to keep the right consistency of the product, so it will be more effective.

Every time you squeeze, you should shake the duster a little. That will allow the dust to float inside the unit. You don’t need to put a lot of the product on surfaces – a thin layer will be enough to affect the crickets. Also, every dust insecticide has its recommendations for usage. So, always read the instructions before applying.

Insecticide

Many insecticides are used as a spray. If you have bought one of them, you need to mix it with the water using 1 to 3 oz per liquid gallon. Using a commercial foamer or sprayer is ok. You may apply it indoors to the cracks and crevices.

Be careful when you work with the kitchen or bathroom surfaces – you need to clean them before and after the insecticide application. Dust is what kills spider crickets really quickly and for a long time.

Top 3 Best Spider Crickets Treatments

I had tried these insecticides by myself and was satisfied with the results. Here you will find small reviews to help you choose the best option for your case.

1. J T Eaton Spider and Cricket Glue Trap – Best Spider Cricket Trap

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J T Eaton Spider and Cricket Glue Trap (Pack of 5)

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Specifications:

• Material: Plastic
• Number of Pieces: 5
• Item Weight: 0.77 pounds
• Product Dimensions LxWxH: 1 x 1 x 1 inches
• Target Species: Cricket, Spider

This glue trap is a ready-to-use product, which is one of the most popular solutions on how to exterminate camel crickets. Its working principle is simple. Pests feel the pleasant scent for them and consider the glue as a nice treat.

It will catch the camel crickets for sure, even if they’re small and have thin legs. The glue works in a huge variety of temperatures – even if you apply it in cold attics or basements. Thanks to the right manufacturing technology, the non-drying texture is saved.

2. Bayer Insecticide Dust – Best Spider Cricket Dust

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Delta Dust Multi Use Pest Control Insecticide…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredient: Deltamethrin 0.05%
• Coverage Area: 1 lb. Covers 1,000 sq. ft.
• Item Weight: 1 pounds
• Product Dimensions LxWxH: 3.8 x 1.9 x 9.63 inches
• Target Species: Ants, Bed Bugs, Boxelder Bugs, Cockroaches, Crickets, Fleas, Firebrats, Silverfish, Termites, Carpenter Ants, Carpenter Bees, Centipedes, Ground Bettles, Millipedes, Scorpions, Spiders, Sowbugs, Wasps, Bees, Webbing, Clothes Moths, Carpet Beetles, Pantry Pest, Plant Pest, Slugs, and Ticks

If you’re searching for the multipurpose insecticide, the Bayer dust will be an excellent choice. It kills a wide range of pests. After you have applied it, the spider crickets won’t disturb you for eight months. You can put it indoors and outdoors.

The insecticide is waterproof; however, it will be more effective if you put it in a dry place. It doesn’t have any odor. So, you can use it in the kitchen or commercial food-handling apartments.

3. BASF Cy-Kick CS Pest Control Insecticide – Best Spider Cricket Insecticide

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BASF Cy-Kick CS Insecticide, Controlled Release…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredient: Cyfluthrin 6%
• Item Form: Spray
• Item Volume: 16 fl. oz.
• Item Weight: 1.21 Pounds
• Product Dimensions LxWxH: 4.75 x 7 x 1.85 inches
• Target Species: Ants, Bed Bugs, Boxelder Bugs, Carpenter Ants, Carpenter Bees, Carpet Beetles, Centipedes, Clover Mites, Cluster Flies, Cockroaches, Crickets, Earwigs, Fire Ants, Fleas, Flies, Grasshoppers, Hornets, Millipedes, Mosquitoes, Scorpions, Silverfish, Spiders, Springtails, Termites, Ticks, Yellow Jackets and others

In case you apply this insecticide in the right way, the crickets won’t have a chance to run away from it. The active ingredient creates a microcapsules barrier. Pests need a small amount of it to get the lethal dose. They won’t return for at least three months.

The product is user-friendly, so there is a little possibility that it will cause skin irritation. Also, it is safe for your pets and the environment. That means you can use the insecticide indoors and outdoors, but you should read the label carefully for the right application.

How to prevent spider crickets?

If you don’t want to see these insects in your home, there are ways to protect the building for sure. Here are the most popular examples.

Keep your basements closed

Cave crickets like to get a rest in the basements or attics, so you need to protect these areas first. Make sure there are no cracks that allow getting inside. Especially, you need to pay attention to the basement windows or ground-level doors.

You may also use the dehumidifiers to dry the air – the pests won’t enter your house if it isn’t warm and moist enough. Also, if you have many card boxes, try to eliminate them. It’s a food source for cave crickets – if they don’t find it in your house, they will just go away.

Use the insecticides as a preventive method

Don’t forget about the glue traps. They stop crickets fast, so you can eliminate them right after they want to attack your home. You may also use dust, but it is not long-lasting, so the protection will be on the low level.

The spray insecticide is a suitable choice if you want to prevent spider crickets. The best way is to apply it together with glue traps and follow other recommendations. In this case, the possibility of cricket’s attack will be lower.

Additional Facts About Camel Crickets

I have collected the information that usually helps a lot if you want to fight camel cricket. So, here are the most common questions.

Are spider crickets poisonous?

No, the camel crickets that look like spiders aren’t poisonous. But they bring damage in another way: these pests chew clothing, curtains, furniture, plants, or in the short word – everything that is in your house. So, if they live there for long, you will have many losses. Also, these creatures are harmless to your pets.

Do sprickets bite?

Sometimes crickets may bite; however, it happens rarely. They can bite you in case you have found their nest and faced a huge amount of these pests. However, their bite isn’t dangerous, and you won’t feel pain.

Are crickets attracted to light?

Yes, these creatures strive to find a bright place. However, during the day they hide in the moist warm place. It is likely to see spider crickets in the basement. When the night comes, they may search for the electric light, gather on the walls or other bright areas.

Can crickets see in the dark?

Spider crickets are nocturnal insects, so they are adapted to see in the dark. Thanks to their habits, you may identify them in your house. First of all, you will see them on the walls, ceiling, or lamps. Also, at night, the male crickets make the chirping noise.

Do camel crickets leave droppings?

When you have a large population of camel crickets in your house, you may even see their excrements on your walls. They attract each other by the smell. That’s why it’s a sign that crickets have occupied your apartment.

Let’s Sum up the Plan of Getting Rid of Spider Crickets

It’s not difficult to identify the camel crickets in your house because they cause a lot of damage. If you have found a large population of these pests, it may terrify you a little. However, it’s not a big problem nowadays. The glue traps seem to be one of the most effective ways to get rid of insects. Other products I have described are also worth your money.

Have you ever faced a cricket problem? What methods did you use to clean your house from the pests? Please, leave your comments in the section below.

References:

• Field Cricket (The Virtual Nature Trail at Penn State New Kensington):
  https://www.dept.psu.edu/nkbiology/naturetrail/speciespages/cricket.htm?
• Crickets a Common Nuisance Around the Home (University of Illinois Extension):
  https://web.extension.illinois.edu/stateline/990909.html
• Camel Crickets (Purdue University):
  https://ag.purdue.edu/btny/ppdl/Pages/Camel-Crickets.aspx

These nighttime musicians can constitute a great menace to many crops, including vegetables, tobacco, beans, corn, wheat, and others. These plants are perfect food sources for crickets. Crickets eat the leaves or bite the stem right at the root, providing damage and causing the death of the greenery.

The infestation of crickets can be a severe threat to your harvest or your property, so it is better to learn how to get rid of crickets. Use this article as your complete guide on finding the best means for cricket control outside and inside.

How to Deter Crickets & Deal with Them: Guides & Tips

To know what keeps crickets away, first, you have to know what attracts a cricket to your house.

What does a cricket look like?

Crickets are small insects. The adult individuals reach only 16 to 26mm in length. The color of their body is usually grayish-yellow, but they can also be different shades of brown, with yellow stains or spots of indefinite shape. Crickets feed on smaller insects and plants.

They usually “sing” in the dark and sleep in the daytime. Crickets prefer to settle in meadows, fields, farms, industrial buildings, basements, and country houses. The optimum temperature for these insects is 30-35 degrees, and at 20 degrees or less, they fall into an apathetic state, stop eating, and multiplying.

The head of cricket is shaped like an oblate egg. There are also three dark arcuate stripes on its head. The eyes of cricket have a complex faceted structure and are located on the sides of its head. Its mouth has a large mustache, and sometimes it’s larger than the insect’s body. The cricket mustache serves a practical purpose; it is responsible for the sense of touch.

What attracts crickets in the house?

Like all other insects that can appear in your home, crickets are attracted by heat and food. In the summer, crickets mainly inhabit green areas near residential buildings, but with the onset of cold weather, they begin to move into basements, and then into heated apartments, as well as into houses.

The perfect environment for their life is an abundance of food, acceptable humidity, and temperature. In addition to these conditions, crickets are attracted by unsanitary ones (like cockroaches, flies, and ants). Before deciding how to deal with insects, it is highly recommended to clean up your residence first.

Light

Although crickets sleep during the day, having found a secluded place, they become active at night, hunt for food, fight with enemies who have come to their territory. Also, bright light attracts melodious insects to people’s homes.

Garbage smell

Leftovers of food in a warm room quickly begin to rot. Crickets, having felt a specific aroma, go to the place where the smell comes from since they do not mind eating spoiled food.

Open windows

Crickets easily crawl into microscopic cracks. Open windows and doors attract these curious insects.

Cricket damage

The bad news is that crickets are omnivorous. Food leftovers, crumbs, and especially trash bins with decaying remains are what attract them into your house. They also eat other invertebrates and practice insect cannibalism. Sometimes, crickets can spoil food and even things in the apartment, as well as moths.

Therefore, the owners have to decide how to remove the crickets that have settled in the house. Domestic crickets do not cause significant damage to people and their homes, but it is better to get rid of the cricket infestation since these insects with their “songs” simply will bring you insomnia.

Signs of a cricket infestation

If cricket is wound up in a dwelling, it will be obvious for all of the residents. The monotonous trills that distract your sleep at night invariably generate a desire to get rid of this unwelcome “guest” quickly.

How to Get Rid of Crickets

First, you need to get rid of the dampness by reducing the level of humidity in all rooms. Pay special attention to the one where crickets may live (usually the bathroom). When conditions change, insects will immediately rush in search of more comfortable places. If crickets can’t escape the dry room, death is unavoidable.

Many people try to catch this insect and take it out of the house, but this is not as easy as it may seem. The thing is that crickets do not allow anyone closer than 10 ft. This happens due to the fact that cricket has an impeccable hearing, and it senses any vibrations in the air.

Therefore, catching a cricket without extra means and tools is probably impossible unless you can move like a real ninja.

While crickets can help fight moths, they also distract residents from sleeping at night. That’s why it is better to apply measures to keep crickets out of the house.

Sticky traps

Using sticky traps is the best way to kill crickets. For successful cricket removal, place them in areas where these creatures prefer to “give concerts”. To make the fight more effective, it is better to set several traps. Although the adhesive tape or trap is inexpensive, the effect is significant.

Close all water sources

These insects usually settle in the bath or kitchen near the taps because they love moisture. In a dry room, the bugs feel uncomfortable. With a prolonged lack of access to water, they die.

Folk remedies

You can not fight crickets, but start expelling them using DIY remedies prepared on the basis of various plants. For example:

Wormwood decoction

Take 2 tablespoons of crushed leaves and stems of the plant and pour 0.5 gallons of water. Boil the mixture for about 5 minutes and then infuse for about 2 hours. Then, you have to filter it and pour the solution into a spray bottle. Spray the areas of the ​​baseboards, floors, walls, window sills, platbands, window frames, where the crickets are most likely to show up.

Pyrethrum powder

This product is absolutely safe for humans and pets. The pyrethrum is a specific type of chamomile that is used to fight various insects. Crickets are no exception, and they also do not tolerate this scent. The powder should be simply sprinkled in places where crickets prefer to hunt.

Chemicals

When there are too many insects, and folk methods of fighting do not give the desired result, it’s time to use more severe products. Chemicals can be dangerous for kids and pets, but they provide 100% result of killing crickets in a house. Repeated processing after a week helps to get rid of the individuals that emerged from eggs.

Top 3 Best Cricket Treatments to Keep Crickets Out of House

After you learned several essential rules for cricket removal, it’s time to choose the best cricket control product.

1. Catchmaster Cricket XL – The Best Cricket Trap

Catchmaster Cricket XL Giant Glue Boards 6-Pk,…

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Specifications:

• Material: Glue
• Number of Pieces: 6
• Item Weight: 7 ounces
• Product Dimensions LxWxH: 0.47 x 5.31 x 1 inches
• Target Species: Cricket, Scorpion, Spider

The Catchmaster glue traps provide the best effect for catching crickets, cockroaches, and other running insects. Thanks to the special formulation of the glue, the glue trap remains effective for up to 3 months. The Catchmaster can be used in any room. It’s safe for children, pets, and allergy sufferers. The trap does not contain chemical insecticides, and it’s the most effective in dry rooms with low humidity.

Remove the trap from the packaging and place it in the place where insects are often found, for example: near the plumbing and sewer pipes, behind cupboards, in corners, etc. If there are no insects in the trap for several days, you should move it to another place. The trap is not reusable, so you have to throw it away right after it gave you the results.

2. BASF Cy-Kick CS Pest Control Insecticide – The Best Cricket Insecticide

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BASF Cy-Kick CS Insecticide, Controlled Release…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredient: Cyfluthrin 6%
• Item Form: Spray
• Item Weight: 1.21 Pounds
• Product Dimensions LxWxH: 4.75 x 7 x 1.85 inches
• Target Species: Ants, Bed Bugs, Boxelder Bugs, Carpenter Ants, Carpenter Bees, Carpet Beetles, Centipedes, Clover Mites, Cluster Flies, Cockroaches, Crickets, Earwigs, Fire Ants, Fleas, Flies, Grasshoppers, Hornets, Millipedes, Mosquitoes, Scorpions, Silverfish, Spiders, Springtails, Termites, Ticks, Yellow Jackets and others

BASF Pest Control Insecticide is one of the best ultimate insect repellers that work both inside and outside. Due to the high consistency and uniform redistribution of the active substance on the surface, the crickets and other pests will have no chances to make it out alive.

Despite its dangerous components, the Cy-Kick insecticide is safe for pets, so you don’t have to worry when applying it on the territory of your residence.

However, the manufacturer recommends using special rubber gloves and a face mask to protect the skin from chemicals. To prepare a solution, mix the stated amount of insecticide with water and spray it on the needed areas. Don’t forget to clean the rooms you’re going to process first. A clean and dry surface will make it easier for the insecticide to provide the best result. The BASF Insecticide will deal with a cricket infestation in less than 48 hours.

3. Delta Dust Multi Use Pest Control Insecticide – The Best Cricket Killer Dust

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Delta Dust Multi Use Pest Control Insecticide…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredient: Deltamethrin 0.05%
• Yield: 1 lb. of Delta Dust covers about 2,000 sq.ft.
• Item Weight: 1 pounds
• Product Dimensions LxWxH: 3.8 x 1.9 x 9.63 inches
• Target Species: Ants, Bed Bugs, Boxelder Bugs, Cockroaches, Crickets, Fleas, Firebrats, Silverfish, Termites, Carpenter Ants, Carpenter Bees, Centipedes, Ground Bettles, Millipedes, Scorpions, Spiders, Sowbugs, Wasps, Bees, Webbing, Clothes Moths, Carpet Beetles, Pantry Pest, Plant Pest, Slugs, and Ticks

The Delta Dust Pest Control Insecticide is designed to kill all types of crickets, cockroaches, and other crawling insects in your apartment. The powder works as a bait that lures an insect and kills it immediately. This is one of the most wide-spread products for processing residences, offices, industrial premises, and other places where insects often gather.

The Delta Dust is 100% waterproof, so if you spot the crickets in your bathroom, you can use it even in the shower. One application of the insecticide works up to eight months and continues to kill the insects, preventing their multiplying. Use it with a hand or power duster.

How to prevent crickets

These easy and affordable options can help to keep your home safe from many insects that may settle in the private house or apartment. Here’s what you have to do to get rid of crickets outside and inside:

• Set mosquito nets on the windows;
• Fill up any crevices where insects can hide;
• Make sure that you empty the trash can regularly, and there are no food leftovers on the dining table;
• Check if your plumbing works properly, and there is no excess moisture;
• Monitor the condition of basements and attics;

Note: this works especially for those who live on the ground floors. First of all, crickets in basement appear on the lower floors through the cracks. These entrances can be located near the various communications (cold and hot water, sewage, gas, electricity).

• Reconsider the lighting in the yard and do not use high power lamps;
• Install strong mesh on ventilation systems;
• Place the compost heaps as far from home as possible.

As it gets dark, don’t forget to close your blinds and curtains. Remember that bright light always attracts insects and acts as an invitation sign, and crickets are no exception. If you follow these fairly simple rules, you can sleep peacefully without fearing that “performances” will disturb your sleep.

If a cricket appeared in a dwelling, it is better to get rid of it immediately. Otherwise, after a while, it will no longer be alone if the conditions are favorable.

At the same time, you need to think about what attracted these insects, but for this, you need to know where the night “musicians” live and what they eat. If you do not solve this issue in time, one cricket can turn into a whole infestation.

FAQ

You have to be fully equipped with the knowledge and proper weapons to fight your noisy enemy. So, this section will help you to find the answers on questions like what repels crickets and others.

What does cricket eat?

In nature, male and female crickets feed on plants and greenery. In human dwellings, they eat homemade food, especially wet and liquid. House crickets also feed on small invertebrates and soft cadaveric tissues. They also practice cannibalism when adult insects eat clutches and juveniles.

Where do crickets come from?

Crickets mostly live outside your house, but in cold seasons they can settle inside. For example, finding crickets in the basement in winter shouldn’t surprise you, since they come for a wet and warm place. So, you have to apply all possible methods to keep crickets out of the house.

Do crickets eat clothes?

Crickets are generally not considered as pests, but like cockroaches, they love stained and odorless clothing, food and drink stains, and laundry starch. A cricket eats the stain and can damage the fiber texture. If you find holes when clothes are washed or removed from the closet, it doesn’t mean that you have crickets.

But if you heard their sound at night and woke up finding a damaged piece of clothing, it’s better to deter crickets and start processing your house with cricket removal treatments.

Does vinegar kill crickets?

The essence of vinegar for fighting bed bugs with a high concentration of acid is capable of killing various insects. It penetrates through the chitinous cover, clogs the spiracles, and destroys away the insides of the insect. However, to achieve such an effect, you have to pour the essence on an insect by yourself. It is better to do it with rubber gloves and a face mask to stay away from the concentration of dangerous acid.

Where do crickets nest?

Crickets breed throughout the year, but their peak of mating activity occurs in the summer. A fertilized female cricket prepares holes in the ground where it lays its eggs. During one gestation, a female cricket can lay from 40 to 179 eggs.

Further, from one to two months (depending on the temperature and on the environment in general), larvae begin to grow. The larva in its appearance resembles an adult cricket, but in order to become one, it has to go through 10 molts, which take place over 7 weeks. After the last molt, the larva produces a typical sexually mature cricket.

The Best Way to Deal with Crickets in a House

By multiplying and increasing the settlement, crickets spoil clothing, paper, furniture, and even wall surfaces. You can get rid of them using chemicals, traps, or by removing. The choice of the method depends on the number of crickets in your house or your desire. Luckily, you already know the main reasons why crickets can appear in your residence and how to keep crickets away from it.

Make a successful purchase and get the best results from applying it. I highly recommend choosing one of the treatments stated above as they show the amazing effects. Whether you settle your opinion on the glue trap, insecticide, or powder – don’t forget to be careful when applying the chosen way of cricket removal. The question of how to kill crickets has at least three answers, and you can find a proper option using this guide.

Anyway, if there are any unanswered questions left — use the comments section below, and I will manage an answer as soon as I can. Also, I would appreciate it if you could help me by sharing your thoughts. Should insecticides be allowed for at-home usage? Which safety precautions should be noted when using an insecticide in a house with kids and pets? Hope to hear from you soon!

References:

• House Cricket (University of Florida):
  http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/misc/crickets/adomest.html
• Pesticides to Control Bed Bugs (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency):
  https://www.epa.gov/bedbugs/pesticides-control-bed-bugs
• Vinegar: Medicinal Uses and Antiglycemic Effect (U.S. National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health):
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1785201/

There are multiple tips on how to get rid of pill bugs on the Internet. However, some of them are rather chaotic and incomplete. If you are looking at how to get rid of pill bugs in house, you already have them at home.

I will give you hints on preventive measures later, but at this moment, you have to act immediately to clean your yard and house. These pests do not cause any harm to human beings except for consuming all the harvest you may rely on. And while they are helpful to our ecosystem in general, not all farmers and gardeners want to see the pests near their land.

Brief Guidance on Pill Bugs

Before we learn how to kill rolly pollies, which is another name for these pests, let’s find out vital information about them that may help us. They can easily destroy the crops or the garden. These pests are tiny but extremely dangerous for your plants.

What are pill bugs

Pill bugs or rolly pollies belong to the Armadillium Vulgare family. They can roll into a tiny ball whenever they feel the threat. These pests are part of the woodlice group. They are not native to the USA; however, these insects are easily accustomed to American soil and spread around it. Their main specifics:

• Dark brown or black color;
• ¾ inches length of their bodies;
• They have 7 pairs of legs;
• Their heads have antennae on them;
• The shape of the body is rather oval, not round. However, they can roll up in a perfect circle;
• They dwell in every state.

Lifecycle

The insects mate most actively in spring and are less active during the whole year. You may find pill bugs infestation in your yard any season. After mating, the female keeps the eggs in a pouch filled with fluid, similar to an incubator that is located under her body. It takes from 3 to 7 weeks.

The nymphs hatch from eggs after that time. They look the same as adult species, except for the smaller lengths. After they are born, they keep dwelling in the mother’s pouch for 2 more months. During the year, they molt their exoskeleton several times and reach maturity. Every month they still molt, even as adults.

Female species, on average, produce up to 40 eggs. The normal length of pill bugs’ life is 3 years. Each year up to two generations are born. However, the quantity of new bugs that appear depends on the conditions where they live, and especially the temperature. The colder the weather, the rarer rolly pollies mate.

Sowbugs vs pill bugs

These insects are almost similar in their look, and sometimes they are mistaken for each other. However, it is worth finding out whether you have rollie pollie infestation or sowbugs before taking any measures.
Similarities of pillbugs and sowbugs:

• The same length of bodies;
• Similar color palette from dark brown or gray to the black;
• Shell-like exoskeleton;
• Seven pairs of legs;
• The oval shape of bodies.

The difference:

• Sowbugs have a pair of appendages from the rear of their bodies that look like tails. Pill bugs do not have that;
• Rolly pollies can roll up in a ball, while sowbugs can’t do this.

What attracts pill bugs

While sowbugs do not bite humans, do not feed on their blood like their relatives, the lice, they still are dangerous neighbors. They are herbivorous by their nature, so you can say goodbye to your crops when pill bugs appear. Things that attract rolly pollies to your household:

• Pill bugs are attracted to decaying organics, like dead plants or leaves;
• Over moisturized ground is a heaven on earth for these pests;
• Wood fibers are another source of the food for sowbugs;
• If there are no decomposing leaves, these pests can feed on living plants, leaves, roots, stems, fruits, especially if they were watered;
• They feed on beans, peas, corn, potato, lettuce, cucumber, beet, melon, spinach, strawberry;
• It happens extremely rare, but some of the pill bugs species may feed on the decaying flesh of animals or their feces;
• If there is nothing more left, these pests will eat bugs that are already dead and shed snakes` skin.

Pill bugs damage

These pests do not bite humans, so you can relax for a while if you worry about it. They do not bite other animals unless they are dead and decomposed, but it is also rare. Besides, pill bugs have this unique feature that makes them amazing decomposers.

They consume heavy metals like cadmium, zinc, copper, and crystallize them out, keeping in their bodies. They remove numerous ions of toxic metals from the land. These metals’ ions will be back again after the death of pill bugs.

This is why many gardeners believe that they can peacefully coexist with the pests as long as they can keep pill bugs out of house. However, rolly pollies are dangerous because they feed on the plants, and if you relied on the harvest heavily, you might get extremely disappointed. These tiny creatures can easily get rid of the plants you grow so hard, down to the roots and leaves.

Signs of pill bug infestation

Pillbugs rarely dwell in the house, as there is not enough moisture for them. Unless you notice pill bugs in basement of the house with high humidity. What to look for indoors?
So, the ways of indoors infestation:

• Cracks in walls that are unsealed;
• Glass doors and any open doors in general;
• High humidity level;
• Lots of garbage in your house and decomposing plants;
• Open windows.

Outdoors:

• Trees;
• Decomposing plants;
• Lots of moisture. They love to dwell in areas with heavy rains.

Main signs that your house has been invaded:

• You notice tiny creatures crawling around frequently;
• When you turn the pile of leaves, you notice pill bugs;
• You notice pill bugs near the stale water;
• Your crop is visibly damaged and eaten.

How to get rid of pill bugs

I have combined all the options for you here. I strongly advise you to do everything from the list. The tips may not only help you to trap or exterminate bugs but to prevent them in the future.

Dry up the moisture

Dry all the extra moisture from your land. If you want to get rid of pill bugs naturally, you have to make it impossible for bugs to live there.

Gather all the leaves

Remove the leaves from the ground. Do not leave them a place to hide. If you have mulch near the plants, make sure it is not deeper than 2 inches. Remove all the mulch from the foundation of your house; there must be a 12 inches distance between the mulch and your house.

Use traps and killers

You have to use specific products to get rid of the bugs. While taking preventive measures and cutting these pests access to your yard and home is important, you have to use active ingredients. I have described them in the list of my top favorites below.

Remove the wood from the ground

Keep the firewood up on the ground. And if you can’t do it, at least move it far from the house. Pill bugs love to dwell in a wood, especially the one that is moisturized by rain and is placed in the shadowy area. If your trees have numerous dry branches that may fall down, you have to trim them.

Ventilation

This is the step you have to take to secure your house. Pill bugs can crawl indoors as easy as outdoors. They don’t usually live indoors for too long unless the place is damp. This is why the most targeted area is your basement. Make sure it is ventilated and not damp.

If you can’t fix the situation naturally, by opening windows, you can use a dehumidifier. If you have a wooden attic, you may want to put a dehumidifier there as well. Pill bugs can choose it as the most peaceful habitat while you never suspect that they live above you. Always use a vacuum cleaner for all the possible hiding places of these insects.

Top 3 Best Pill Bugs Treatment

Here are my three favorite killers of pill bugs. I’ve specifically chosen universal products, so you may also get rid of other pests in your household. These treatments were checked by me in my own yard and home, and I found them extremely helpful. However, if you have another opinion about them, you may express your thoughts in the comments below.

1. Trapper Insect Trap – Perfect Way of How to Catch Pill Bugs

Trapper Insect Trap (Great for Bed Bugs, Spiders,…

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Specifications:

• Material: Cardboard
• Number of Pieces: 90
• Item Weight: 0.48 Pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 9.15 x 8.4 x 0.6 inches
• Target Species: Cockroach, Bed Bug, Spider

There are 90 traps in one pack. This product is universal and kills spiders, cockroaches, and bed bugs as effectively as pill bugs. I recommend you to use it strictly indoors as it will not withstand rain or wind. The trap is lightweight, so it can be easily blown away. There is glue inside that prevents all the small crawling pests from getting out once they are caught.

This product was created by Bell Laboratories, developers from the USA. They offer certified products that help to get rid of insects and other pests. This trap not only captures but also monitors pill bugs. Put this trap on the floor, and you will find out the location of rolly pollies’ dwelling.

2. Bonide Insect and Grub Control – Effective Granules to Control Pill Bugs

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Bonide (BND60360) – Insect and Grub Control,…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredients: Imidacloprid 0.5%, Lambda-cyhalothrin 0.1%
• Item Form: Granules
• Item Weight: 6 pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 3.8 x 14.8 x 15 inches
• Target Species: Grubs And Over 40 Additional Insects Including Earwigs, Ants, Fleas, Ticks, Pill Bugs, And More

This insect control kills pill bugs, fleas, ants, mole crickets, ticks, chinch bugs, and grubs. It is highly effective, and results are visible after the first 24 hours. It is not recommended for indoor use, but you can apply it near the house foundation. The formula stays active during the next 3 months. It contains Imidacloprid and Lambda-Cyhalothrin.

Bonide develops insecticides for many years. They offer top-selling products for the US gardens. This treatment kills bugs inside and outside the ground. However, I strongly advise you to keep it far from children and pets, at least the first day.

3. Monterey Sluggo Plus – Organic Family-Friendly Pill Bug Control in Garden

Monterey LG6575 Sluggo Plus Wildlife and Pet Safe…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredients: Phosphoric acid, iron(3+) salt (1:1) 0.97%, Spinosad 0.07%
• Yield: 1 lb. Treats 2,000 sq. ft. and last up to 4 weeks
• Item Weight: 1 pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 4 x 5 x 10 inches
• Target Species: Earwigs, Cutworms, Sowbugs, Pillbugs, Slugs, Snails

The pack of this killer is comfortable to hold and savvy, as it contains 1lb. It is universal and kills not only pill bugs, but sowbugs, snails, slugs, cutworms, and earwigs. So if you also have a problem with separating sowbugs from pill bugs, this is your tool. It is the perfect bait for them and also a deadly poison. Iron phosphate in its formula is organic and non-toxic.

Sluggo Plus was created by Monterey, a famous producer of top insecticides for the garden. It is made in granular shape, so it is easy to spread. Don’t worry; its organic formula will become a great fertilizer after decomposing.

How to prevent pill bugs

Almost all the measures I have described above work as preventive ones. If you want to avoid bugs at your house, you can use the organic pill bug control that was described. Do not hesitate to use these measures even if you don’t have pill bugs yet, but you live in the area of heavy rains or moisture.

And remember, if your neighbors complain about the bugs, you will have them in no time. So, to prevent the infestation, follow these simple rules:

• Always clean your house and your yard

Leaves in your garden that are decomposing every day may not be a big deal for you, but a source of food for pill bugs. The same goes for the wood, fallen branches, and even fruits from the trees. Cleaning your basement, attic, all the rooms may help you to identify and quickly get rid of the problem as well;

• Don’t leave cracks in the walls in your house, as the bugs may easily dwell there

It is not only the pill bugs that can comfortably live inside the cracks. Since these tiny creatures are a source of food for other pests like centipedes or spiders, you may expect more species to come;

• Use a dehumidifier if you feel that the air in your house is damp

Don’t hesitate to turn it on, since it may prevent the mold appearance at your home as well. If you are not sure whether you have high humidity, there are simple gadgets that measure it apart from the temperature;

• Clean all the gutters in your yard, so there is no place for the insects to hide

Make sure that the gutters are higher than the ground. Don’t leave anything that creates shadow and moisture on the land;

• Get rid of extra moisture in your yard, so pests will not have access to the water

They will quickly go away or die from dehydration. If you grow a lot of plants, and you can’t cut down the watering, at least make sure that only plants get this water. Put it under each root and stop the process once the plants are hydrated. This way, you will save the water you consume and prevent the whole ground from getting damp.

Popular Questions About Pill Bugs

Here are the most widely asked questions about these pests. I hope my answers will be useful to you. Read them before you order pill bugs killers.

Do pill bugs eat plants?

Pill bugs prefer to eat plants that are decomposing. However, if they can’t find them on the ground, they will feed on the roots and even leaves of live plants. Pill bugs can eat fruits, as well. Some of the species feed on corn and peas.

Are pill bugs poisonous?

No, pill bugs are not poisonous. You can touch them if you want. However, I do not recommend you to touch them with bare hands, mainly because it is unsanitary and useless. There are too many pests living together, so it is better to use specific professional killers on them.

How can pill bugs be useful for my garden?

Pill bugs consume toxic metals that are contained in the soil. They eat them and keep inside their bodies. Only after they died, these elements go back to the soil again.

How long do pill bugs live?

On average, Armadillidium Vulgare species live up to 3 years. However, it depends on the quality of their life. They are the most vulnerable while they are nymphs, several weeks after they are born.

Which Pill Bugs Killer Is the Best?

I believe that all the products I have recommended must be used in case you have pill bugs infestation at your house. Order Trapper insect trap is effective for indoor use, Insect, and Grub Control by Bonide — for outdoors or in case of severe infestation, and Sluggo Plus by Monterey if you need organic family-friendly remedy.

You can combine three of them to get rid of pill bugs for good. I have used all three of them in my yard and still use the trap in my house. They are all universal and kill numerous small pests. If you have used at least one of them, please share your impressions in the comments below. How do you like them?

References:

• Pillbugs and Sowbugs (Land Isopods):
  https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/pillbugs-and-sowbugs-land-isopods
• Sowbugs and Pillbugs (University of Kentucky):
  https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef439
• Holy Moly It’s A “Roly Poly” – Sowbugs and Pillbugs (Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California):
  https://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=12567
• What About Pillbugs? (Pacific Northwest National Laboratory):
  https://workbasedlearning.pnnl.gov/pals/resource/cards/pillbugs.stm
• Pillbug (University of Florida):
  http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/MISC/Armadillidium_vulgare.htm

Asian beetles or Asian ladybugs are a ladybug specie that can overwinter in warm places to keep eating aphids for up to 3 years. Asian ladybugs were imported to the US around 100 years ago to reduce the population of aphids.

Unfortunately, they’re not as beneficial as they used to be. They’ve already overtaken the native ladybug populations and invade more and more households around the continent, so it’s important to learn how to get rid of Asian beetles if you see them inside.

What are Asian Beetles

Asian Beetles’ appearance is very similar to average ladybugs, so it can be quite difficult to tell one from another if you don’t know what to look at. To identify an Asian bug, you should look for a white M-shaped mark on the area right above the beetle’s head.

It’s the easiest way, and it always works. The mark may look differently, but average ladybugs don’t have such an area behind their heads at all.

The lifecycle of a single beetle can last up to 3 years (usually 2 years). The population of the specie grows every year because there are very few natural enemies to the insect. In addition, it can produce several generations during the year. Fortunately, they don’t replicate indoors!

Ladybugs VS Asian Beetles

Native ladybugs are harmless insects. Similarly to them, Asian beetles eat garden pests, which is definitely good. On the other hand, native ladybugs won’t ever bite you, while Asian ladybugs do it quite often.

Both insects can hide in houses to hibernate during winter. There’s no need to destroy a ladybug swarm if it’s doesn’t affect the inside part of your household. I also recommend to catch and transport them to better places if possible or just let them survive.

At the same time, the nation will be thankful if you kill populations of Asian beetles as there are too many of them in the country, and they interfere with the initial ecosystem because of their aggressiveness and higher survivability.

What Attracts Asian Beetles

Asian lady beetles are instinctively attracted by bright colors, including yellows, whites, and greys. They also enjoy places with high amounts of direct sunlight. They never get inside houses if there are no cracks in window and door frames and other parts of the house.

If there’s at least one crack, they may find it attractive to overwinter inside. They’re very sensitive to warmth and leave traces to tell their mates to follow along to better places.

Asian Beetles Dangers

Unlike the average native North American ladybugs, Asian beetles are much more aggressive and can bite you. They don’t carry any diseases, but some people are allergic to their bites and secretion. The yellowish liquid can cause mucous irritation, itching eyes, cough, and hives.

If a dog eats the bug, it will face an upset stomach and mouth skin corrosion (as they secret out the liquids inside). There’s no need to worry about fatal injuries as your dog cannot eat a lot, but it’s better to avoid such consequences.

Other nasty effects include those smelly yellowish stains that they leave here and there. If an infestation occurs, they can really mess up the surfaces around your house.

How to Get Rid of Asian Beetles

First of all, I’d like to tell you how to eliminate Asian beetles inside your house. If you notice any signs of an infestation, you should act as fast as possible. Asian ladybugs are excellent communicators.

They frequently leave spots of a yellowish liquid that serves as navigation for other beetles. That’s why they migrate so orderly and quickly. Learn the most effective methods to get rid of them quickly.

Vacuum

One of the most common natural ways to get rid of Asian beetles is to vacuum them up. This method is quick and doesn’t kill the vast majority of the bugs. You can later set the insects free in your garden if aphids eat your plants, or burn them with the bag.

Use Indoor/Outdoor Chemicals

This is the most effective way to stop an Asian beetle infestation. I recommend you to look for remedies that are relatively safe and effective enough to kill the bugs quickly. I prefer using dedicated Asian beetle killers in homes and yards of my customers.

The most effective bug killers usually include bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, and permethrin. Look only for those remedies that are tested by people you trust or have safety certifications for indoor and outdoor use. Both can be harmful to pets, so it’s important to keep them away until the liquid gets dry.

Powder Diatomaceous Earth

This cheap natural killer can help you treat hard-to-reach places by powdering the earth into cracks and narrow holes. Diatomaceous earth dehydrates bugs and can be a good repeller as well. You can use it almost everywhere. Your pets and children won’t suffer.

Proper ventilation is necessary anyway. And avoid using ‘food grade’ diatomaceous earth that’s not tested for pest control purposes.

How to Repel Asian Beetles in Future

Here is info on how to keep Asian beetles away in the future. These methods are quite simple and very effective:

• Remove the scent – the beetle scent is what attracts new insects to come so soon. Wipe the surfaces with citronella/ citrus/ wild orange oil to remove it;
• Place bags of cloves and bay leaves all around for a long-lasting repelling effect;
• Treat the outsides with chemicals to create a reliable barrier around windows, roofing, doors, and the foundation;
• Repair your house to exclude.

Top 3 Best Asian Beetles Treatments

I use and recommend these 3 remedies in the majority of cases. They are cost-effective and make getting rid of Asian beetles less time-taking. Read the reviews and apply the products following the instructions.

1. HARRIS Asian Lady Beetle Killer – Best Asian Beetle Killer

Harris Asian Lady Beetle and Box Elder Killer,…

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Specifications:

• Item Form: Spray 
• Liquid Volume: 32 fl.oz.
• Item Weight: 2.42 pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 5 x 3 x 12 inches
• Target Species: Asian Lady Beetle, Box Elder

This EPA-registered odorless liquid is officially allowed for indoor use against Asian ladybugs. The bottle comes with a convenient trigger sprayer and an extension pipe that lets you quickly treat the whole house.

One gallon is enough for multiple applications so that you can create a year-round barrier. The liquid doesn’t damage any materials, so it’s safe to use on walls, paint, and fabrics.

2. Syngenta – A12690A – Demand CS – Best Asian Beetle Pro Insecticide

Demand CS Insecticide – Contains iCAP Technology…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredient: lambda-Cyhalothrin 9.7%
• Liquid Volume: 8 fl.oz.
• Item Weight: 10 Ounces
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 1.8 x 3.65 x 6.05 inches
• Target Species: Ants, Aphids, Bed Bugs, Beetles, Boxelder Bugs, Carpenter Bees, Carpet beetles, Centipedes, Chiggers, Chinch Bugs, Clover Mites, Cluster flies, Cockroaches, Crickets, Earwigs, Fleas, Flies, Grasshopper, Grubs, Gypsy Moth Larvae, Japanese Beetles, Midges, Millipedes, Mites, Mole Cricket, Mosquitoes, Scorpions, Silverfish, Spiders, Termites, Thrips, Ticks, Wasps, Whiteflies and others

This powerful insecticide offers great value for money. You can spray it around your house twice a year to achieve deadly protection against most insects that may get into your house. Asian beetles usually die within several minutes.
The residual effect of the remedy may last up to 200 days inside structures. I recommend using it only if the infestation gets really tough as it’s very concentrated and controls over 30 insect species.

3. BUGGSLAYER Insecticide Concentrate – Cost-effective Outdoor Solution

Bugg Insecticide – Concentrate – Outdoor Box Elder…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredient: Deltamethtin 1.0%
• Liquid Volume: 16 fl.oz.
• Item Weight: 9 ounces
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 1.8 x 3.8 x 7.4 inches
• Target Species: Elder Bugs, Stink Bugs, Asian Lady Beetles

BUGGSLAYER is an effective outdoor concentrate. A single 16-oz bottle is enough for you to make from 4 to 10 gallons of a deadly brew. You can apply it on any surfaces of the house as it doesn’t leave stains and odors.

I can guarantee that the protective layer will remain effective for 3-4 weeks, depending on weather conditions. That’s usually more than enough for preventing average infestations.

FAQ

My readers and customers ask these questions very often. I decided to make your ‘fight’ easier and the article more comprehensive. Make sure to remember everything to master Asian beetle control.

What do Asian beetles eat?

The favorite dish of Asian beetles is aphids. In the US, aphids usually live on trees and agricultural crops and gardens. When aphids run out, beetles start looking for fall-ripening apples, grapes, etc. That’s why you should remove them to avoid garden infestations. Fortunately, they don’t congregate on other human foods, animal feces, etc.

What scents do Asian beetles hate?

Asian ladybugs hate such scents as:

• Citronella and citrus – I recommend spraying diluted oils around;
• Bay leaves – bugs always avoid it;
• Peppermint – good repellent and semi-effective natural bug killer;
• Cloves – put it near window sills to scare off the bugs.

Do Asian beetles bite?

Yes. Asian beetles can bite you. It’s usually not very painful but may hurt for a while. If you’re allergic to ladybugs, you may have hives. The bites heal quickly and never cause contamination.

Where do Asian beetles nest?

The list of favorite Asian bug nests includes:

• Bright-lighted south-western walls;
• Attics;
• Ceilings;
• Window frames;
• Space under furniture;
• Behind the walls.

What kills Asian beetles?

The recommended Asian Beetle pesticides for effective management procedures include:

• bifenthrin;
• cyfluthrin;
• cypermethrin;
• deltamethrin;
• β-cyfluthrin

The most efficient natural killer is diatomaceous earth powder. It causes insect dehydration. I prefer indoor chemical treatments anyway as they save a lot of time and don’t dust your property all around.

Just Stop It

Now use your knowledge and the best remedy from my reviews to stop the Asian beetle infestation in your house forever. Don’t forget to protect your property with repellents and fix the breaches to avoid a future reinfestation.
Have you faced such a problem before?

What remedies have you used? If you have any questions on the topic, I’ll be happy to reply in the comments section below. Keep safe!

References:

• Is ‘food grade’ diatomaceous earth okay for pest control? (Oregon State University – National Pesticide Information Center):
  http://npic.orst.edu/faq/de.html
• Multi-Colored Asian Lady Beetle (MALB) Management Procedures HANDOUT (University of Arkansas System):
  https://www.uaex.edu/farm-ranch/pest-management/docs/Multi-Colored%20Asian%20Lady%20Beetle%20MALB%20Pest%20Management%20HANDOUT.pdf

Few people enjoy the sight of fat, slick, worm-like creatures with tiny legs that make them look like unsightly shrimps. Not only are grubs ugly; they also damage your garden. The little things feed on roots, causing the plants to slowly die of malnourishment and water shortage. They hurt our backyards in other, indirect ways, too.

Sounds bad, doesn’t it? Don’t panic, though. I’m here to tell you how to get rid of grubs for good and share with you three products that I’ve found efficient in dealing with grub infestation. But first, know your enemy!

What Are Grubs and How to Spot Them?

Although commonly referred to as grub worms, grubs are not a separate species but rather an umbrella term for the larval stage of certain chafers and beetles. The species that’s most commonly held responsible for grub damage is the Japanese beetle. These are common in sunny parts of the lawn and generally lay their eggs in summer.

The reason why beetles choose to place their larvae in soil is that the babies feed on plant roots. This brings about lawn damage as one of the key signs that you are dealing with grub infestation — small, irregularly placed patches of brown, wilted grass usually appear. You might also find your plants suddenly dead or dying, with droopy leaves.

Sometimes the ground feels springy when you step on it. You can check the situation by lifting the grass, and looking at the top soil level (grass “peeling” easily can be a sign of badly damaged roots, too). A healthy lawn can generally handle up to ten grub worms per square foot; seeing more is surely a red flag.

Apart from munching on roots and thus dooming your well-loved plants to a slow death, grubs attract many nuisance animals. Moles, skunks and raccoons can all be attracted by the nutritious “worms”, which is not the most beneficial scenario for your vegetable patch/flowers/patio in general.

Okay, I Have Grubs. How Do I Send Them Packing?

When it comes to getting rid of grubs, integrated pest management is unparalleled. The term stands for responsible use of pesticides and biological controls combined with monitoring and prevention.

That is, rather than going nuclear with harsh chemicals and then forgetting about the problem until it re-emerges, it’s best to keep an eye open for signs of a growing grub population.

Step 1: Start by Killing Grubs with a Chemical

One possible way of reducing the grub population is by applying an anti-grub insecticide.

The market has a lot to offer in terms of chemicals that kill grubs in garden soil. Some pesticides come with preventive potential (see Step 2); these work best when applied in late spring to early summer. However, in late summer to fall, when the grubs are large and already feeding, curative products based on carbaryl, trichlorfon, or zeta-cypermethrin are the only option.

These tend to kill beneficial insects as well as pests, though. It might be a wise decision to wait for the next window where you can apply prevention as described in Step 2 or resort to Alternative Step 1 as a healthier alternative. If you choose to use curative chemicals, remember to water them in. The later in the season, the more.

Alternative Step 1: Use Organic Controls

You might want to steer away from aggressive chemicals by applying organic grub removal methods. These fall into two major categories, namely plant-based repellents and biological controls.

The former is represented predominantly by neem oil, a natural insecticide extracted from the Azadirachta indica tree that prevents egg-laying and feeding. It is commonly applied as a water solution, which is sprayed on affected areas of turf.

The latter category includes beneficial nematodes and milky spore.

Nematodes, tiny soil-dwelling worms, are grubs’ natural enemies because they produce bacteria that are deadly to the larvae. You can bye them dry or pre-mixed with water for an easy introduction. It’s recommended that you apply nematodes on a cloudy day because these creatures are extremely sensitive to light.

Milky spore is the common name of Paenibacillus papillae, a bacterium species that is known to affect Japanese beetle grubs exclusively. This means no other living creatures will be harmed, making milky spore a truly safe grub worm control method.

It also means that if the grubs you are dealing with are not Japanese beetles but any other beetle/chafer species, the treatment won’t work. The spore is usually applied in fall, mixed with water as directed. Please be aware that milky spore usually takes several years to achieve thr full effect.

Step 2: Use Preventive Treatment

My recommendation is that you use a preventive formula based on imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, or clothianidin, preferably in early summer (if used in spring, the pesticide might partially degrade by the time hatching begins in late July). Chlorantraniliprole also has a high preventive potential but is less water-soluble and can be applied any time after green grass appears in spring. Whichever you choose, watering-in is essential.

Please mind that the organic controls featured in Alternative Step 1, namely milky spore and nematodes, also have a preventive potential.

Step 3: Keep Your Garden Non-Grub-Friendly

Beetles generally prefer to lay eggs in wet soil. Since hydration is key to turf health, it’s important to find a balance between too dry and too damp. Try to keep your garden well-irrigated while avoiding excessive wetness during the breeding season, which is from late spring to early summer.

Top 3 Best Grubs Treatments

Here are three ready-made solutions that will help you control grubs in a safe yet effective manner.

1. Neem Bliss Oil: The Best Way to Get Rid of Grubs on Contact

Neem Bliss (16 Fl Oz) – Pure Neem Oil Concentrate…

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Specifications:

• Item Form: Oil
• 100% Cold-Pressed
• Item Volume: 16 fl. oz.
• Package Weight: 1 Pounds
• Package Dimensions LxWxH: 5.91 x 3.98 x 1.93 inches 

Cold-pressed from an evergreen Indian tree, neem oil is widely used in organic farming. It kills a wide variety of nuisance insects but is considered non-toxic to mammals (unless ingested), birds, or honeybees.
Neem Bliss has been listed for organic use by the Organic Materials Review Institute.

It only contains cold-pressed natural neem oil with a high azadirachtin content, which acts as a growth regulator. The price might be somewhat high for a 16 oz bottle, but it is a safe and quick way of saying goodbye to grubs.

2. ST GABRIEL ORGANICS 80080-P Milky Spore: The Best Long-Term Natural Grub Killer

Sale

ST. Gabriel Organics – Milky Spore Granular…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredients: Spores of Bacillus Popilliae 0.02%
• Item Form: Powder
• Item Weight: 20 Pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 5 x 18 x 36 inches
• Coverage Area: 20 lbs. will Treat 7,000 square feet

One 20 lb bag of this product will cover up to 7,000 square feet of property, which makes it a reasonably affordable solution.

Milky spore is only effective if you are dealing with Japanese beetle larvae, which means you need to identify the species that the grubs come from.

The product might take years to reach its full potential, but it also promises 15 to 20 years of prevention with a 10-year guarantee! A spreader is required for correct application.

Apart from being the most long-lasting grub solution on the market, the milky spore is safe to humans and any animals other than the Japanese beetle.

3. Scotts GrubEx1: The Best Grub Killer for Those Who Want to Go Nuclear

Sale

Scotts GrubEx1 Season Long Grub Killer, Protects…

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Specifications:

• Active Ingredients: Chlorantraniliprole 0.08%
• Provides Protection For 4 Months
• Treats up to 10,000 sq. ft., 28.7 lb.
• Item Weight: 28.7 pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 20 x 13.25 x 5 inches

Formulated with chlorantraniliprole, GrubEx1 affects both adult beetles and their larvae. It is active against a wide variety of species and treats up to 10,000 sq. ft per 28.7 lb bag. Given the price, this is another answer to the question, “How to kill grub worms on a budget?”.

The product is to be applied in spring or early summer using a spreader. The effect will last for about 4 months. Chlorantraniliprole is classified as a reduced risk pesticide according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, meaning this is a relatively safe chemical solution.

FAQ

In this section, I answer the most common grub questions.

Where do grubs come from?

Grubs are larvae. They hatch from eggs laid by a number of beetle and chafer species, most commonly the Japanese beetle. Adult insects naturally occur in gardens within their respective habitats.

When to treat my lawn for grubs?

Always time your treatment according to the label. Generally, curative chemicals are applied in fall, while preventive products can be applied from spring to summer. There are solutions that you can use from spring to fall.

What to grubs do to your lawn?

Grubs ruin the turf and other plants by munching on their roots. This brings about dead patches, wilted vegetation, and loose soil. They can also attract raccoons, skunks, and moles, who sometimes dig the ground to feed on the grubs.

No Lawn Villains Anymore!

Since grub worms are essentially baby beetles, the answer to “What is the best treatment for grubs?” is prevention. An all-round approach where you not just kill the pests but keep their population in check with long-lasting solutions is the only way to say goodbye to never see the grubs return and feast on your plants.

Apart from chemicals and organic insecticides, biological controls can prevent re-infestation without harming your garden and bees (if any). Timing is critical, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Have you tried any grub treatments that failed? Share in the Comments section!

References:

• How do I treat for grubs in my lawn? (University of New Hampshire Durham):
  https://extension.unh.edu/blog/how-do-i-treat-grubs-my-lawn
• White Grubs (AggieTurf):
  https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/turfgrass-insects/white-grubs/
• How to choose and when to apply grub control products for your lawn(Michigan State University):
  https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/how_to_choose_and_when_to_apply_grub_control_products_for_your_lawn
• Japanese Beetle Insecticide FAQs (Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs):
  https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/HEALTHYENVIRONMENTS/HEALTHYNEIGHBORHOODS/PESTICIDES/Pages/Chlorantraniliprole-and-Your-Health-FAQs.aspx