Woodlice

Symptoms

Grey or pinkish-brown animals with a hard segmented shell over their bodies. During the day they hide in dark places and are often found under logs, stones and pots. They can damage seedlings but rarely affect established plants.

Cause

There are several species of woodlice found in the British garden.

Harm

They feed mainly on decaying plant material (they are quite beneficial as they help to break down dead plants, increasing soil fertility) but they can damage seedlings, bedding plants, peas, beans and carrots.

Treatment

• Encourage natural predators such as toads and ground beetles.

• Good garden hygiene – remove dead plant material, keep composting areas away from growing areas.