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Earwigs
Leeendean
Posts: 122
hi guys I keep finding earwigs on my hydrangeas are they a pest I should be worried about will they eat my hydrangeas at all I’ve just found 3 on one plant
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Posts
Dahlias are another matter !
You could try upturned flowerpots stuffed with straw (if you can get hold of any) or there are various other methods that you could try. Have a look here
https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=494#:~:text=Earwigs are omnivorous, they feed,chrysanthemums and occasionally other plants.&text=Earwigs and the damage causes,Credit: RHS/Entomology.
As @AnniD describes, you can lure them with a trap.
We don't get too many here, although I've noticed more this year. but they haven't touched any of mine. Dahlias are certainly their favoured dinner
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
Most species of earwigs feed on decaying vegetation, such as composting leaves and other decaying plant items found under wet leaves or mulch. Earwigs prefer dark and wet areas. These earwigs also like to live and lay their eggs in these areas.
Several species of earwigs are predators, preying on smaller insects and arthropods. These are less common than the earwigs that eat vegetation.
There are also species of earwigs which will attack plants, especially seedlings. These tender shoots are good food for earwigs. The earwig damage can be seen on some crop and garden plants, and the damage can injure the plant to the point of making it unproductive.