Woodlice cause damage to young plant leaves during night.

Most people know what a woodlice looks like, but not many are aware of the damage that they actually cause - especially at night when they roam and eat young leaves of tender plants. Woodlice also feed on old decaying matter and general garden debris, which is where they are normally found during the daylight hours.

Typically Woodlice either scurry away with their multitude of legs, or curl up in a tight ball - hoping that it will deter any predator!

Woodlice are happy living in greenhouse conditions, where they can wander amongst young tender seedlings at will during the night and either eat foliage or nibble at stems - often causing the collapse of the plant.

They prefer dry conditions rather than damp, and are often to be found in loose leaf little rather than the damper compost heap. Old tree stumps are also a favourite hiding place.

They can be controlled - killed - with applications of Bendiocarb, Permethrin or standard creepy-crawly insect sprays/dusts such as are normally sold for ants etc. (Technically the woodlice is not an insect, but a crustacean.)

As well as being garden pests, woodlice can find their way into the home, and be an unwelcome visitor, though rarely doing any damage.

How Woodlice / Woodlouse effect your Garden in the UK

Are you an avid gardener living in the UK? Have you noticed an increase of small bugs that look like armadillos crawling around your garden this spring? Chances are, these creatures aren’t armadillos but woodlice. From their appearance to their effects on your gardening, it pays to know a little bit more about them and how they impact your outdoor space. In this blog post, we will explain exactly what woodlice are and how they can affect your UK garden!

What are Woodlouse

Woodlice, also known as pillbugs or sowbugs, are small crustaceans that can commonly be found in gardens. While they may look like insects, they are actually more closely related to crabs and lobsters. While they may not be the most beautiful critters in your garden, they actually play an important role in breaking down dead plant material and enriching your soil with nitrogen. In fact, they can even be used as a natural pest control method to keep other insects at bay. So next time you spot a woodlouse in your garden, don't be too quick to shoo it away – it may just be doing you a favor!

The History of Woodlouse in the UK

For centuries, the woodlouse has been a common sighting throughout the United Kingdom, and its history dates back to prehistoric times. These resilient creatures are experts at adapting to their environment and can be found in a wide range of habitats, including our gardens, parks, and even inside our homes. Interestingly, woodlice are not technically insects but are instead classified as crustaceans, making them more closely related to crabs and lobsters than to ants and bees. Despite their association with damp and decaying matter, woodlice play a critical role in breaking down dead plant material and recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. As such, they remain a fascinating and essential part of the UK's natural world.

The Benefits of Woodlice in your Garden

Woodlice, also known as roly-polies or pill bugs, may not be the most glamorous or sought-after creatures in your garden, but they serve an essential role in maintaining a healthy environment. These small crustaceans help to break down and recycle dead plant matter, releasing essential nutrients back into the soil. Not only do they contribute to the ecosystem by nourishing plants, but they also serve as a food source for other insects and animals like birds and hedgehogs. Additionally, woodlice are indicative of a healthy and diverse ecosystem, meaning their presence is a sign that your garden is in good shape. So, next time you see a woodlouse scurrying across your garden, take a moment to appreciate the benefits they bring to your green space.

How to Identify Woodlice

Woodlice can often be mistaken for bugs, but they are actually crustaceans that live on land. They are commonly found in damp and dark areas, such as under rocks or in cellars. To identify woodlice, first look at their outer shell, which is made up of overlapping plates that resemble armor. They have 14 legs and two pairs of antennae that are used for sensing their environment. Woodlice also have a flat body and are typically gray or brown in color. Another way to identify them is by their behavior – they curl up into a ball when threatened or disturbed. So if you come across a small, armored creature with a lot of legs, antennae, and the ability to roll up into a tight ball, you can be sure that you've found a woodlouse.

Creating a Balanced Ecosystem with Woodlice

Woodlice, also known as pillbugs or sowbugs, are often overlooked creatures in our gardens and homes. However, these little crawlers play an important role in creating a balanced ecosystem. Woodlice are decomposers, which means they break down dead plant matter and release nutrients back into the soil. This process is vital for maintaining healthy soil for plants to grow in. Additionally, woodlice provide a food source for other animals such as birds and toads, helping to maintain a healthy food chain. By welcoming woodlice into our gardens and homes, we can help create a more sustainable and balanced ecosystem.

What to do if your Garden has too many Woodlice

Woodlice are beneficial for the garden as they break down decaying organic matter and release nutrients. However, an excessive amount of woodlice can cause damage to plants and flowers, making them unsightly. If you notice the population is getting out of hand, there are several ways to address the issue.

Firstly, make sure to remove any decaying plant matter and debris from your garden as it will attract more woodlice. Next, try using a natural repellent such as diatomaceous earth or garlic spray to deter them from settling in your garden. Alternatively, lay down a few pieces of damp cardboard or bricks in your garden as they will attract woodlice and can be easily removed and disposed of. With a little effort, you can restore balance to your garden and keep your green space pest-free.

Natural Predators of Woodlice in the UK

Woodlice are fascinating little creatures that you often spot scuttling around in your garden or home. But did you know that they have natural predators in the UK? These predators include birds such as blackbirds, thrushes, and robins, as well as various species of ground beetles. Hedgehogs are also known to enjoy a woodlouse snack every now and then. While woodlice are not typically harmful, having their predators around helps to maintain a balance in the ecosystem. It's interesting to think about the different roles that animals play in our environment and how they are all interconnected.

Keeping Woodlice Out of Your Garden

For any avid gardener, the sight of woodlice wriggling around in their prized patch of greenery is enough to set alarm bells ringing. But fear not, there are a number of ways you can keep these little critters at bay. Firstly, ensure your garden soil is dry and well-drained as this will make it an unattractive environment for woodlice to thrive in. Secondly, try not to leave piles of decaying matter around your garden as this is a prime spot for woodlice to feast on. Lastly, consider using natural deterrents such as crushed eggshells or copper tape around your pots and beds, as these are known to be effective in keeping woodlice out. With these tips, you'll be able to maintain a beautiful garden without any unwanted pests.

What causes woodlice in the house?

Woodlice, also known as pillbugs or roly-polies, are a common sight in many households. But have you ever wondered why these small crustaceans are invading your space? The answer might surprise you. Contrary to popular belief, woodlice do not actually seek shelter inside homes because they are attracted to dampness and rotting wood. Instead, they are simply trying to survive and find food. Woodlice feed on dead plant matter and decaying organic material, which can often be found in the corners of our homes. So the next time you spot one of these little creatures scuttling across your floor, remember that they are only trying to find a meal and mean no harm.

Should I kill woodlice in my house?

Woodlice, also known as pill bugs or roly-polies, are common household pests that many people find unwelcome guests. While they may look harmless, some individuals may wonder if they should kill them if they find them inside their home. The truth is that woodlice do not pose any direct threat to humans and do not transmit diseases. In fact, they can be quite beneficial as they feed on dead plant material and help with decomposition. However, if they become too numerous, they can also be a sign of excess moisture or dampness in the house. Rather than resorting to killing them, it's best to focus on eliminating any sources of moisture and sealing up entry points to prevent them from entering in the first place.

What harm do woodlice do?

Although they may seem harmless, woodlice can actually cause some damage to plants and vegetables. These crustaceans are known for feeding on decaying matter, including dead plant material, but they also have a taste for living plants. When a high number of woodlice gather on a plant, they can cause significant damage, particularly to young seedlings. They will eat small holes in the leaves and stems, which reduces the plant's ability to photosynthesize, making it less able to grow and produce fruits or vegetables.

Additionally, woodlice can carry plant diseases from decaying matter, which can spread to healthy plants. So, while they may not be as dangerous as some other garden pests, it's important to keep an eye on woodlice populations and take steps to control them if necessary.

How do you keep woodlice away?

Woodlice can be pesky little creatures that invade your home and garden. To keep them away, it's important to keep your indoor and outdoor spaces clean and dry. Woodlice thrive in moist environments, so make sure to fix any leaks or sources of moisture.

Additionally, seal up any cracks or crevices that could serve as entry points for the woodlice. Natural deterrents such as copper strips or cedar chips can also be effective in keeping these critters away. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can prevent woodlice from taking over your space.

How to Kill Woodlouse

Woodlice are pesky little creatures that can wreak havoc on your garden or home. But fear not, there are several ways to effectively eliminate them. One option is to use a natural insecticide made from essential oils such as tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus. Simply dilute the oil with water and spray it on the affected areas. Another way is to create a trap by placing a sliced potato or cucumber on the ground near where the woodlice are frequently seen. They will be attracted to the food and will gather underneath it. From there, you can scoop them up and dispose of them. Remember that prevention is key, so make sure to keep your garden and home clean and dry to avoid attracting woodlice in the first place.

If you're looking to remove woodlice from your garden using a chemical method, there are some options available. However, it's important to remember that woodlice are generally harmless and can actually benefit your garden by breaking down decaying plant matter. If you still feel the need to remove them, here is a suggestion:

Chemical Method - Using Insecticides:

Choose a suitable insecticide: Look for a product specifically labeled for use against woodlice or sowbugs. These products often contain active ingredients like pyrethroids (e.g., permethrin, cypermethrin) or carbamates (e.g., bendiocarb). Make sure to read and follow the label instructions carefully.

Apply the insecticide:

Target the areas where you see the highest concentration of woodlice, such as around compost heaps, under rocks, or near damp and decaying wood. Apply the insecticide according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring that you're wearing appropriate protective gear like gloves and a mask.

Monitor and reapply if necessary: Keep an eye on the treated areas to see if the woodlice population decreases. If you still notice a significant number of woodlice after a week or two, you may need to reapply the insecticide.

Remember, using chemicals should be a last resort, as they can negatively impact the environment and other beneficial creatures in your garden. Consider trying non-chemical methods first, such as removing potential hiding spots, improving drainage, and allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

If you prefer an organic approach to managing woodlice in your garden, here are some methods to consider. Remember that woodlice are generally harmless and even beneficial to your garden, as they help break down decaying plant matter. However, if you still want to reduce their presence, try the following:

Organic Methods for Woodlouse Control:

• Remove hiding places: Woodlice thrive in damp, dark places. Clear away piles of leaves, decaying wood, and other debris from your garden. Also, avoid having rocks or bricks resting directly on the soil, as these can provide ideal hiding spots for woodlice.
• Improve drainage: Ensure that your garden has proper drainage to prevent standing water and overly damp soil. This will make the area less attractive to woodlice.
• Diatomaceous earth: This is a natural, non-toxic powder made from fossilized diatoms. Sprinkle it around the base of plants or in areas where you've seen woodlice. The sharp edges of the diatoms damage the exoskeleton of the woodlice, causing them to dehydrate and die. Be sure to use food-grade diatomaceous earth and reapply after rain.
• Encourage natural predators: Attract birds, frogs, and ground beetles to your garden, as they feed on woodlice. Provide bird feeders, bird baths, and sheltered areas for birds to nest. For frogs and ground beetles, create small rockeries or log piles in shaded areas.
• Neem oil or insecticidal soap: Spray neem oil or insecticidal soap on affected plants or areas where woodlice congregate. These products are derived from natural sources and are generally considered safe for use in organic gardens. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application.
• Traps: Create simple traps by placing damp newspaper, cardboard, or pieces of wood in your garden overnight. Woodlice will be attracted to these damp areas. In the morning, collect and dispose of the woodlice away from your garden.

By implementing these organic methods, you can help manage the woodlice population in your garden without resorting to chemicals.

In conclusion, woodlice are a common and fascinating group of outdoors critters. They can be beneficial in the garden by breaking down dead material and improving soil structure. However, if there are too many woodlice in a garden, they may cause harm to delicate plants or eat younger seedlings. Identifying different species of woodlice is easy to do with some basic guidance. Natural predators can be used to help keep the population in check but when necessary household insecticides or other control methods can be used. Woodlice rarely infest the house because their preference is for outdoor habitats, but if found inside should be removed with a vacuum cleaner rather than eliminating them with insecticide sprays as these could contaminate food sources and potentially be hazardous to your family's health. All in all, woodlice are harmless creatures that can live harmoniously in our gardens as long as we keep their populations under control.