Rolly pollies, also known as pill bugs or Armadillidiidae, are small, grayish bugs that roll into a ball when disturbed. While these creatures might look harmless, they can wreak havoc on your garden by feeding on young plants, roots, and decaying organic matter. If you’ve noticed that your plants are being damaged by these little critters, it’s essential to take action before the damage becomes extensive.
This article provides comprehensive methods to get rid of rolly pollies in your garden, details common problems that gardeners face with these pests, and offers effective solutions. Additionally, you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about managing rolly pollies.
What Are Rolly Pollies and Why Are They a Problem in the Garden?
Rolly pollies are a type of woodlice, a group of crustaceans that live in moist environments. While they are not insects, they are often mistaken for them due to their appearance. These creatures have a segmented body and are capable of rolling into a ball as a defense mechanism, which is why they are often called “pill bugs” or “roly-polies.”
Why Rolly Pollies Are Problematic
- Feeding Habits: Rolly pollies primarily feed on decaying organic matter, but when their food supply is scarce, they can turn to your garden plants. They chew on leaves, stems, and roots, causing significant damage to seedlings, young plants, and even established crops.
- Root Damage: They are particularly harmful to the roots of plants, which can stunt growth or even cause the plant to die.
- Attracting Other Pests: An infestation of rolly pollies can attract other pests to your garden, creating a domino effect of damage to your crops.
Understanding the role of rolly pollies in your garden and the damage they can cause is key to finding effective ways to control their population and protect your plants.
Effective Ways to Get Rid of Rolly Pollies in Your Garden
There are several methods to eliminate rolly pollies in your garden. The best approach will depend on the severity of the infestation, the size of your garden, and your personal preferences for using natural or chemical treatments. Below are some effective strategies to get rid of these garden pests.
1. Remove Hiding Places and Reduce Moisture
Rolly pollies thrive in moist, dark, and damp conditions. One of the best ways to reduce their numbers is to eliminate their preferred habitats.
- Clear Debris: Rolly pollies like to hide in piles of leaves, wood, mulch, or other garden debris. Regularly clean up fallen leaves, dead plant material, and other organic matter in your garden.
- Improve Drainage: Ensure your garden has good drainage. Waterlogged areas are ideal environments for rolly pollies. If necessary, amend the soil to improve its drainage properties.
- Avoid Overwatering: Rolly pollies are attracted to excessive moisture, so be mindful of your watering schedule. Water your plants early in the morning, so the soil has time to dry out before evening.
By creating an environment that’s less hospitable to rolly pollies, you can reduce their numbers naturally.
2. Use Natural Predators
Introducing natural predators into your garden can help control rolly pollies. Several creatures are known to feed on pill bugs, and by encouraging them in your garden, you can reduce the rolly pollie population.
- Beneficial Insects: Some types of beetles, such as ground beetles, are natural predators of rolly pollies. You can encourage these helpful insects by providing shelter and food sources.
- Birds: Certain bird species, such as robins and chickens, love to eat rolly pollies. Attracting these birds to your garden can help keep your pest population in check. Consider using birdhouses or bird feeders to invite more birds into your garden.
- Nematodes: Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms that can be introduced to the soil. They target and kill many soil-dwelling pests, including rolly pollies, without harming your plants.
3. Apply Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a natural, non-toxic substance that can be used to control a wide range of pests, including rolly pollies. DE consists of the crushed remains of diatoms, which are fossilized algae, and it works by damaging the exoskeleton of insects and other arthropods.
- How to Use DE: Sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth around the base of your plants or directly on the areas where you’ve observed rolly pollies. The sharp edges of the particles will cut into the insects’ exoskeleton, causing dehydration and death.
- Precautions: While DE is safe for humans and pets, avoid inhaling the dust. Apply it on dry days and reapply after rainfall.
4. Set Traps for Rolly Pollies
You can use simple traps to catch and remove rolly pollies from your garden. Here are a few methods to consider:
- Potato or Carrot Traps: Slice a potato or carrot and place the pieces in areas where you’ve noticed rolly pollies. Rolly pollies are attracted to the moisture and will gather on the vegetables. Check the traps in the morning and remove any collected bugs.
- Jar Traps: Place an overturned jar or bowl into the soil with a piece of vegetable or fruit inside. Rolly pollies will crawl into the jar but will have difficulty escaping. Check the traps every day and dispose of the trapped bugs.
5. Use Organic Pesticides
If the infestation is severe and other methods aren’t working, you may need to resort to organic pesticides. There are several options available that are safe for the environment and non-toxic to humans and pets.
- Neem Oil: Neem oil is a natural pesticide that can help repel and kill a variety of garden pests, including rolly pollies. Mix according to the instructions and spray it on affected plants.
- Insecticidal Soap: Insecticidal soaps, made from fatty acids, are effective at controlling soft-bodied insects like pill bugs. They work by disrupting the pests’ cell membranes, causing them to dehydrate and die.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using any pesticide, even organic ones, and try to apply them in the evening to minimize harm to beneficial insects.
Common Problems and Their Solutions
Problem 1: Rolly Pollies Keep Coming Back
- Solution: If you’ve tried various methods but rolly pollies keep returning, consider combining several control techniques. For example, use traps along with diatomaceous earth and introduce natural predators to your garden. This multi-pronged approach will increase the chances of long-term success.
Problem 2: Rolly Pollies Are Hiding in the Soil
- Solution: If the rolly pollies are particularly active in the soil, consider introducing beneficial nematodes. These microscopic worms will target and eliminate pests living in the soil. Additionally, improving soil drainage will make it less favorable for rolly pollies.
Problem 3: The Soil Is Too Wet
- Solution: Make sure you’re not overwatering your garden. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings and consider using mulch to help with moisture control.
Problem 4: Harm to Other Insects
- Solution: If using diatomaceous earth or insecticidal soap, take care to avoid harming beneficial insects like bees, ladybugs, and predatory beetles. Apply these treatments directly to affected plants and avoid spraying when pollinators are active.
FAQs About Getting Rid of Rolly Pollies in the Garden
1. Are rolly pollies harmful to all types of plants?
Rolly pollies primarily target young, tender plants, but they can also damage seedlings, leaves, and roots. They are less likely to damage mature plants.
2. Can I use chemical pesticides to get rid of rolly pollies?
While chemical pesticides are available, it’s best to avoid them, especially in a home garden. Chemical pesticides can harm beneficial insects and disrupt the natural ecosystem of your garden. Opt for organic methods or natural remedies when possible.
3. How can I tell if I have a rolly pollie infestation in my garden?
Signs of a rolly pollie infestation include holes in leaves, damaged roots, and visible clusters of the bugs, especially after rainfall. Look for them under mulch, rocks, or other debris in your garden.
4. Will introducing more predators really help control rolly pollies?
Yes, natural predators like ground beetles, birds, and nematodes can help reduce the rolly pollie population. However, for optimal results, it’s best to combine this method with other techniques, such as using diatomaceous earth and removing hiding places.
5. Do rolly pollies damage plants permanently?
Rolly pollies can cause significant damage, especially if they are feeding on young plants or roots. While they may not permanently destroy a plant, severe damage can stunt its growth or lead to death if left untreated.
6. Can I use any home remedies to get rid of rolly pollies?
Yes, home remedies like using garlic spray, hot pepper, or soapy water can help repel and kill rolly pollies. These natural treatments are safe for your plants and the environment.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Garden from Rolly Pollies
Rolly pollies might seem harmless at first, but they can cause serious damage to your garden if left unchecked. By taking preventive measures, such as removing debris, improving drainage, and introducing natural predators, you can keep these pests away. If you do encounter an infestation, use traps, diatomaceous earth, and organic pesticides to effectively control the problem. By acting early and employing a combination of techniques, you’ll ensure that your garden stays healthy and pest-free.