Identification

• Earwigs have two appendages at the tail end of the body. These forcep-like appendages are curved in males and nearly straight in females. Most species have wings that sit under hard wing covers when at rest. The juveniles look like adults, except they are smaller and wingless.
  
  

Damage

• Earwigs chew numerous irregular holes in dahlia leaves. Young, tender foliage and flower petals may be completely devoured.
  
  

Prevention

• Good garden cleanup is key to earwig control. Earwigs hide in dark, damp places. Pick up debris and eliminate moist spots as much as possible, and remove and destroy infested organic mulches.
  
  

Control

• Traps for earwigs include shallow cans containing a half inch of vegetable oil, dark cardboard boxes baited with oat bran, and hiding places such as toilet paper and newspaper rolls. Place traps near the plants at sunset and empty them in the morning. Earwigs multiply rapidly, and in severe infestations it may be necessary to use chemical control. Choose an insecticide labeled for earwigs, and follow the label instructions carefully.