How to Get Rid of Pill Bugs in Vegetable Gardens

Are you having problems with pill bugs in your vegetable garden? Do you want to know how to get rid of pill bugs from your vegetable garden? If so, you're not alone. Pillbugs can be a real nuisance in the garden, but there are steps you can take to get rid of them. In this blog post, we'll discuss what pill bugs are, why they're a problem in gardens, and how to get rid of them. We'll also provide some helpful tips on preventing pill bugs from taking over your garden in the first place.

So whether you're dealing with a minor infestation or just want to take preventative measures, read on for everything you need to know about getting rid of pill bugs in vegetable gardens.

What are pill bugs?

Pillbugs, also known as rolly pollies or woodlice, are small, grayish-black insects that are related to crabs and shrimp. They get their name from their ability to roll up into a tight ball when they feel threatened. Pillbugs are found all over the world and are common household pests. While they're not harmful to humans, they can damage plants by eating their roots and leaves.

Why are pill bugs a problem in vegetable gardens?

Pill bugs are a problem in vegetable gardens because they eat plant roots and leaves. This can damage or kill plants, especially young seedlings. In addition, pillbugs can spread diseases to plants. If you have a pill bug problem in your garden, you may notice yellowing or wilting plants, as well as holes in leaves or roots.

How to identify a pill bug infestation in your vegetable garden

The best way to find out if you have a pill bug infestation in your garden is to look for the insects themselves. You can see if the pill bugs are eating your plants by looking at the damage to plants, such as yellowing or wilting leaves, holes in leaves or roots, or dying seedlings. If you suspect you have a pill bug problem, it's important to take action immediately to prevent further damage to your plants.

The best ways to get rid of pill bugs without using chemicals

Pill bugs, love to feast on decaying plants and can wreak havoc on your vegetable garden. Fortunately, there are a few different ways you can try to get rid of them in a vegetable garden without using harmful chemicals.

Strong roots and strong soil

The key to organic pest control is having healthy soil and a healthy root structure. It is way to get rid of pill bugs by making sure your vegetable plants have strong roots and strong soil. A healthy root structure will make it harder for the pill bugs to damage your plants.

Fencing

You can also keep pill bugs out of your vegetable garden by fencing it. This will prevent bugs from getting into the garden in the first place.

Vegetable trap

You can make a trap for pill bugs using a piece of wood or cardboard. Roly poly bugs are easily attracted to this method. Place the trap near plants that are being damaged by pill bugs. The bugs will crawl onto the trap and then you can dispose of them. Pill bugs are attracted to healthy crop foods, and they've also earned the nicknames “potato bugs” and “tomato bugs”.

Diatomaceous earth

Another way to get rid of pill bugs is to use diatomaceous earth. This is a natural substance that is made from the remains of algae. It works by dehydrating the pill bugs and killing them.

In order to use DE, Spread it along the edges of your planting beds where pill bugs like to live. Unfortunately, it also kills ants and various other insects, meaning it could be harmful to ladybugs and other beneficial bugs.

Bamboo or PVC tube traps

You can also make a trap using a bamboo or PVC tube. Cut the tube into pieces and place them around the garden. The pill bugs will crawl into the tube and then you can dispose of them.

Soap water spray

You can make a soap water spray to kill pill bugs. Just mix one tablespoon of dish soap with one gallon of water. Then, spray the solution on the pill bugs.

Ground covers

Another way to prevent pill bugs from getting into your garden is to use ground covers. Ground covers are plants that cover the ground and prevent insects from getting to the young plants.

Cornmeal trap

You can make a homemade pill bug trap for pill bugs using cornmeal. Just mix one cup of cornmeal with one cup of water. Then, place the mixture in a container near the plants that are being damaged by pill bugs. This will make pill bugs naturally crawl into the container and then you can dispose of them.

Beer trap

You can also trap pill bugs using beer traps. Just place a can of beer near the plants that are being damaged by pill bugs. Carefully press the beer can or plastic cup down into the prepared holes completely until the top of each can is level with the surface of the garden soil. The bugs will crawl into the beer and then you can dispose of them.

As the beer evaporates or too many bugs accumulate in the cans, empty them out, replace them in the ground and refill them with more beer.

Remove mulch and debris

Another way to prevent pill bugs from getting into your garden is to remove mulch and other decaying organic matter. This will make it harder for the bugs to find places to hide.

In excess mulch and dead plant matter, pillbugs are not exposed to their many natural predators like birds and become overpopulated. So, make it a habit to clean leaf litter out of your garden regularly.

Pick them off by hand

If you have a small infestation of pill bugs, you may be able to get rid of them by hand-picking them. Just make sure to dispose of them properly so they don't crawl back into your garden.

Use beneficial nematodes

Beneficial nematodes are tiny worms that kill insects. They are safe to use around plants and will not harm people or animals. You can find them at most garden stores. They are safe for humans but can be a danger to some beneficial insects.

Plant bug deterrent herbs

There are some herbs that deter pill bugs organically. These include basil, bay leaves, catnip, mint, and rosemary. You can plant these herbs around the perimeter of your garden to keep pillbugs out.

Cedar oil spray

You can also make a cedar oil spray to deter pill bugs. It is an efficient and safe way to control the problem. Just mix one ounce of cedar oil with one cup of water. Then, spray the solution around the perimeter of your garden.

Prevention tips to keep pill bugs from coming back

Once you have gotten rid of pill bugs, you will want to take steps to prevent them from coming back. Here are some tips:

1) Water your plants regularly. This will help to keep the soil moist and make it harder for pillbugs to burrow into it. If they have enough organic matter and moisture in your soil, they won't need to use your plants as a food source.

2) Keep your garden clean and free of debris. This will make it harder for pillbugs to find places to hide.

3) Make sure to seal any cracks or holes in your home. This will prevent pillbugs from getting inside.

4) Use traps and Insecticide spray regularly to keep pillbugs from coming back.

5) If you have pets, make sure to keep their food bowls clean and free of insects.

6) Another way to prevent pill bugs from getting into your garden is to clean up fallen fruits and vegetables. This will make it harder for the bugs to find food.

FAQs

Do coffee grounds repel pill bugs?

Yes, coffee grounds can help repel pill bugs. Just sprinkle the grounds around the perimeter of your garden.

Does vinegar kill pill bugs?

Yes, vinegar can kill pill bugs. Just mix one part vinegar with four parts water and spray it on the bugs.

Why do I have so many pill bugs?

Pillbugs are attracted to moist conditions. If your garden is damp or has a lot of mulch, this may be why you have a lot of pill bugs.

What environment do pill bugs prefer?

Pillbugs prefer moist, dark environments. This is why they are often found in gardens and beneath mulch.

Do Pillbugs like vinegar?

No, pillbugs do not like vinegar. The acidity of the vinegar will kill them.

What is the difference between a pill bug and a sow bug?

The main difference between a pill bug and a sow bug is that pill bugs can roll into a ball, while sowbugs cannot. Pillbugs are also generally smaller than sow bugs.