Centipedes are one of the most common pests that can infest your houseplants. They are small, multi-legged creatures that are difficult to spot until they’ve already caused damage. These pests are attracted to humid environments and will often hide in the potting mix of your plants. While they generally don’t cause much harm to humans, centipedes can decimate a houseplant population in a short period of time. If you think you have a centipede problem, read on for some tips on how to get rid of them.
1. Limit the amount of water you give your plants. Centipedes are attracted to humid environments, so by cutting back on the watering, you can make your home less inviting to them.
2. Remove debris from your plants. Debris such as dead leaves and stems can provide hiding places for centipedes, so it’s important to remove them on a regular basis.
3. Kill them on the spot. If you see a centipede, kill it immediately with an organic insecticide or by squishing it with your shoe.
4. Place sticky traps all over the house. Sticky traps can be placed around your plants and in other areas of your home where centipedes might be hiding. These traps will lure the centipedes in and then prevent them from escaping, effectively killing them.
5. Rid your house from all of the centipede’s food sources. All insects need food to survive, and removing these food sources can help get rid of centipedes for good. Areas to focus on include sealing up any cracks or openings where insects might be able to enter and cleaning up any spilled food or crumbs right away.
6. Use organic insecticides. Insecticides that contain pyrethrin or neem oil can be effective against centipedes and other pests without causing harm to humans or animals. Be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully and apply the insecticide directly to any affected areas for best results .
7. Diatomaceous earth is a natural pesticide that will kill centipedes without harming your plants. Apply it around the base of the plant, being sure to get into all the nooks and crannies where the bugs may be hiding. You can also use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil; these products will kill centipedes on contact. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully, as using too much of these chemicals can harm your plants.
Conclusion
Centipede problems in houseplants are more common than you might think—but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with them! By taking preventive measures and knowing how to properly deal with an infestation, you can keep these pests away from your plants for good. By following these tips, you can get rid of centipedes in your home quickly and easily! Be sure to take preventive measures such as sealing up cracks and removing hiding places so that they don’t come back again in the future though!
