If you’ve noticed little bugs running around your home, you may have the unwelcome guests of roly poly bugs. These bugs, also known as pill bugs or woodlice, can be a real pain to get rid of, but with the right knowledge and tips, you can get rid of them for good and keep your home bug-free. In this article, I’ll give you some tips on how to get rid of roly poly bugs and keep them away.
Types of Roly Poly Bugs
The roly poly bug is a common name for the pill bugs, also known as isopods. There are two types of roly polys – terrestrial (land-dwelling) and aquatic (water-dwelling). Terrestrial roly polys are the most common and can be found under logs, rocks, and other damp areas. Aquatic roly polys live in freshwater or brackish environments. They can be found in ponds, streams, and other bodies of water. Both types of roly polys have a curved body, seven pairs of legs, and two antennae. The main difference between the two is that aquatic roly polys have gills and can live underwater, while terrestrial roly polys do not have gills and cannot live underwater.
Prevention
I should take some preventive measures to ensure that roly poly bugs do not invade my home in the first place. I should seal all the cracks and crevices in my house in order to prevent roly poly bugs from entering. I should also maintain a clean environment in my house and vacuum regularly to prevent the bugs from taking up residence. Additionally, I should place screens on all windows and doors to keep the bugs out.
Moreover, I should inspect any items I bring into my home, such as cardboard boxes, furniture, and clothing, to make sure there are no roly poly bugs in them. I should also inspect any plants I bring into my house, as roly poly bugs may be hiding in the soil. Lastly, I should make sure that any outdoor trash cans are sealed properly to prevent the bugs from entering.
Physical Removal
Rather than using chemical solutions, physical removal of roly poly bugs is a much safer and more effective method of getting rid of them. To do this, you need to be thorough and persistent in your search for them. Start by turning over rocks and boards to remove hiding roly poly bugs. Be sure to check under tree bark and other moist areas as well. If you find clusters of them, you can simply scoop them up with a hand shovel and dispose of them. You can also use a vacuum cleaner to suck up roly poly bugs and their eggs. Once you have removed them from the area, don’t forget to clear away any debris that may be harboring more of these pests.
Chemical Removal
- Purchase an insecticidal soap from your local gardening store.
- Mix the insecticidal soap with water according to the instructions on the package.
- Dip a sponge or cloth into the mixture and scrub the affected areas to remove the roly poly bugs.
- Repeat the application of the insecticidal soap mixture every two weeks until all of the roly poly bugs are removed.
- Alternatively, purchase a roly poly bug killer from your local gardening store.
- Follow the instructions on the package to apply the roly poly bug killer.
- Repeat the application of the roly poly bug killer every two weeks until all of the roly poly bugs are removed.
Vacuuming
- Locate roly poly bugs in the affected area and mark them.
- Vacuum the area thoroughly, making sure to focus on the spots you marked.
- Discard the vacuum bag or contents immediately after vacuuming, as roly poly bugs can survive in the bag.
- Repeat vacuuming as necessary to remove more roly poly bugs.
Diatomaceous Earth
| Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|
| Natural product, safe to use around pets and children | Need to be reapplied after rain or heavy dew |
| Meant to be used as a dry powder | Can be messy to apply |
| Effective against roly poly bugs | Can be harmful to people and pets if inhaled |
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a natural product derived from the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of hard-shelled algae. DE is a dry powder that is effective against roly poly bugs. It works by cutting the protective outer layer of the roly poly bug, making it vulnerable to dehydration. DE is safe to use around pets and children, but must be reapplied after rain or heavy dew. It can be messy to apply, so be sure to wear protective gear when using it. It should also not be inhaled, as it can be harmful to people and pets.
Home Remedies
I start by cleaning up the area where the roly poly bugs are. Vacuuming up the bugs and sealing off any entrance points is the most effective way to get rid of them.
I have also found that using a mix of borax and sugar works well as a home remedy. I mix the two together and put them in the areas where the roly poly bugs are living. The sugar attracts the bugs and the borax is a dehydrating agent that kills them.
I have also heard that diatomaceous earth is a great natural remedy for roly poly bugs. I sprinkle the diatomaceous earth in the affected area and the bugs get stuck in it and die.
Lastly, I have found that using a mixture of liquid dish soap and water is also an effective home remedy. I mix the two together in a spray bottle and spray the affected area. The soap will coat the bugs and suffocate them.
These home remedies are all effective ways to get rid of roly poly bugs. With the right combination, I am sure I can get rid of these pesky bugs in no time.
Natural Predators
- The most common natural predators of roly poly bugs are birds, reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals.
- Insects such as centipedes and spiders also hunt roly poly bugs.
- Wasps, bees, and other flying insects can also be effective natural predators.
- Ground beetles, fire ants, and other species of ants are also known to hunt roly poly bugs.
- Various species of fish, such as catfish and bass, may also prey on roly poly bugs.
Some gardeners may also find that introducing natural predators of roly poly bugs can help reduce their numbers. These predators can be purchased from garden centers or online. Introducing natural predators may not completely get rid of the bugs, but they can help reduce their numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I organically get rid of pill bugs in my garden?
The best way to effectively and organically get rid of pill bugs in your garden is to improve the soil and reduce the amount of moisture in the soil. Adding organic matter such as compost, mulch and well-rotted manure will increase the drainage and aeration of the soil, making it less attractive to pill bugs. You can also reduce the moisture levels in the garden by removing any standing water and keeping the leaves and other debris from accumulating. Additionally, you can use natural predators such as centipedes, ground beetles and spiders to help reduce the population of pill bugs.
How do I kill Rolly Polly Bugs in my Home?
There are several methods to get rid of roly poly bugs in the home. Vacuuming with a vacuum cleaner is the most effective way to remove them. Vacuum the area thoroughly and dispose of the contents immediately. Use an insecticide that is specifically designed to kill roly poly bugs to spray around the areas where these bugs are found. The most common insecticides used for this purpose are boric acid and diatomaceous earth. Make sure to follow the instructions on the insecticide label for proper application. Another option is to place traps around the home, such as sticky tape or glue boards, to catch the roly poly bugs. These traps can be discarded after use.
What are the best methods for getting rid of pill bugs in potted plants?
The best method for getting rid of pill bugs in potted plants is to introduce natural predators such as centipedes and spiders. This can be done by introducing these insects into the environment around the plant or by spraying an insecticide containing these predators. Another method is to eliminate any sources of food, water, and shelter for the pill bugs. This can be done by regularly removing dead leaves and debris from around the plant, keeping the soil dry, and ensuring that the pot has proper drainage. Finally, insecticides containing neem oil and pyrethrin can be used to directly control the pill bug population.
Is there an effective way to get rid of sow bugs in my basement?
Sow bugs, also known as roly poly bugs, are small, round bugs that live in damp, dark places. To get rid of them, start by sealing cracks and crevices in the basement walls and floors. Vacuum any visible sow bugs and dispose of them in the trash. Next, reduce moisture levels in the basement by using a dehumidifier and fixing any leaks or water issues. Finally, spread diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of the basement. This powder is made of fossilized algae and can kill sow bugs on contact.
How can I keep my home bug-free from roly poly bugs?
The best way to keep your home bug-free from roly poly bugs is to implement a few preventive measures. Regularly inspect your home for any signs of roly poly bugs, paying special attention to moist, dark areas. Seal any cracks or crevices around windows, doors, and baseboards, as this will help prevent roly poly bugs from entering. Keep your home clean and free of clutter. Vacuum regularly to remove any food particles that could attract roly poly bugs. Finally, use boric acid or diatomaceous earth in areas where roly poly bugs are likely to hide.
Conclusion
I’ve outlined several strategies on how to get rid of roly poly bugs from your home. Keeping an eye out for the tell-tale signs of roly polys, and taking preventative measures like making sure the space is clean, reducing moisture, and caulking up any cracks or gaps, should help you to keep your home roly poly-free. If you find yourself with a roly poly infestation, using some of the suggestions outlined here should help to get rid of them quickly and effectively.
