Finding the best insecticide for pill bugs is essential for homeowners and gardeners seeking to protect their plants and landscapes from these common pests. Pill bugs, also known as roly-polies or sow bugs, are crustaceans that feed on decaying organic matter but can also damage young plants, seedlings, and tender roots when populations become excessive. Selecting the right insecticide ensures effective control and prevents damage to your garden and lawn.
Pill bugs are not actually insects but terrestrial crustaceans belonging to the order Isopoda. They are commonly found in moist, dark environments under mulch, rocks, and plant debris. While they primarily feed on decaying organic matter, they can become pests when they feed on tender plant roots, seedlings, and low-growing fruits. Understanding the best control methods and insecticides for pill bugs is crucial for effective management.
Choosing the right insecticide for pill bugs requires understanding the different formulations available, including baits, granules, and liquid sprays. Some products provide immediate knockdown, while others offer long-lasting residual control. The most effective approach often combines chemical control with cultural practices like reducing moisture and removing hiding places.
This comprehensive guide examines the top 15 insecticides for pill bug control, providing detailed information on their active ingredients, application methods, and effectiveness. With the right insecticide, you can effectively manage pill bug populations and protect your garden from damage.
Top 15 Best Insecticides For Pill Bugs
1. Sevin Insect Killer Granules – Best Overall Insecticide For Pill Bugs
Sevin Insect Killer Granules is a highly effective insecticide that provides excellent control of pill bugs and other lawn and garden pests. This granular formulation contains the active ingredient carbaryl, which provides fast-acting control and long-lasting residual protection. The granules are easy to apply with a spreader and are effective on a wide range of pests.
- Garden pest control to protect your lawn, fruits and vegetables from listed damaging pests
- This insect killer for lawns works above and below the surface
Sevin Granules provide rapid knockdown of pill bugs on contact and offer residual protection for up to 3 months. The granular formulation is ideal for lawns, gardens, and landscape beds, and it can be applied around foundations to prevent pill bug entry. The product is effective on over 100 different pests, making it a versatile choice for comprehensive pest control.
For homeowners seeking a reliable, effective insecticide for pill bugs, Sevin Insect Killer Granules delivers exceptional results. The easy-to-use granular formulation and long-lasting protection make it a popular choice for outdoor pest control.
Pros:
- Fast-acting control
- Long-lasting residual protection
- Easy granular application
- Effective on over 100 pests
- Versatile use
- Proven effectiveness
- Good value
Cons:
- Requires watering in
- Affects beneficial insects
- Not for use on food crops
2. Ortho BugClear Insect Killer – Best Granular Insecticide For Pill Bugs
Ortho BugClear Insect Killer is a granular insecticide that provides effective control of pill bugs and other lawn pests. This product contains bifenthrin, which offers both contact and residual control of pill bugs. The granular formulation is easy to apply with a spreader and provides long-lasting protection.
- OUTDOOR BUG KILLER: Use Ortho BugClear Insect Killer for Lawns & Landscapes Ready-To-Spray mosquito spray for yards to kill 235 listed bugs, including ants, ticks, armyworms, mosquitoes, fleas, spiders and periodical cicadas
- HOW TO USE: Easily apply insect spray by connecting a garden hose to the attached sprayer
BugClear provides fast-acting control of pill bugs on contact and offers residual protection for up to 3 months. The granular formulation is ideal for lawns, gardens, and landscape beds. The product is effective on a wide range of lawn and landscape pests.
For homeowners seeking a granular insecticide for pill bug control, Ortho BugClear delivers reliable results. The easy-to-apply formulation and long-lasting protection make it a popular choice for outdoor pest control.
Pros:
- Fast-acting control
- Long-lasting residual
- Easy granular application
- Broad-spectrum activity
- Versatile use
- Water-in formulation
- Proven effectiveness
Cons:
- Affects beneficial insects
- Requires watering in
- Not for use on food crops
3. Monterey Garden Insect Spray – Best Organic Insecticide For Pill Bugs
Monterey Garden Insect Spray is a naturally derived insecticide that provides effective control of pill bugs and other garden pests. This product contains spinosad, a naturally occurring substance produced by soil bacteria. The organic formulation makes it suitable for vegetable gardens and ornamental plants.
- FAST ACTING AND ODORLESS - Monterey Garden Insect Spray is made with Spinosad, a naturally occurring bacteria that controls listed insects.
- CONTROLS MANY INSECTS - This insect spray product controls caterpillars, leafminers, codling moth, tent caterpillars, gypsy moth, trips, borers, fire ants, and more.
Spinosad provides fast-acting control of pill bugs through both contact and ingestion. The product offers residual protection for up to 7-10 days and is safe for beneficial insects when used as directed. The liquid formulation is easy to apply with a sprayer.
For homeowners seeking an organic insecticide for pill bug control, Monterey Garden Insect Spray delivers effective results. The naturally derived formulation and proven effectiveness make it a responsible choice for vegetable gardens and edible crops.
Pros:
- Naturally derived
- Fast-acting control
- Organic formulation
- Safe for beneficial insects
- Contact and ingestion action
- Versatile use
- Proven effectiveness
Cons:
- Shorter residual activity
- Requires thorough coverage
- Higher price point
4. Safer Brand Diatomaceous Earth – Best Natural Insecticide For Pill Bugs
Safer Brand Diatomaceous Earth is a natural insecticide that provides effective control of pill bugs and other crawling pests. This fine powder is made from fossilized algae and works by dehydrating insects upon contact. The natural formulation is safe for use around children, pets, and beneficial insects.
- SAY GOODBYE TO BUGS: Kill a wide range of crawling insects like roaches, ants, fleas, silverfish, and bedbugs with our indoor bug and roach killer for insect control
- DEHYDRATES AND KILLS: Our diatomaceous earth, combined with selected bait, causes bed bugs and roaches to dehydrate and die within 48 hours after contact
Diatomaceous earth provides long-lasting control when kept dry. The powder adheres to pill bugs and absorbs the waxy coating on their exoskeletons, causing dehydration and death. It is effective on a wide range of crawling insects and pests.
For homeowners seeking a natural, chemical-free insecticide for pill bug control, diatomaceous earth delivers effective results. The natural formulation and long-lasting protection make it a popular choice for organic gardening.
Pros:
- Natural formulation
- Safe for children and pets
- Safe for beneficial insects
- Long-lasting when dry
- Easy application
- Environmentally friendly
- Cost-effective
Cons:
- Requires dry conditions
- Dust can be messy
- Slower acting than chemical options
5. Bonide Granular Insecticide – Best Long-Lasting Insecticide For Pill Bugs
Bonide Granular Insecticide is a powerful insecticide that provides long-lasting control of pill bugs and other lawn pests. This granular formulation contains the active ingredient bifenthrin, which provides both contact and residual control. The long-lasting formulation reduces the need for frequent applications.
- Protect plants from insect damage with Systemic Granules for Insect Control from Bonide; this product is a low odor ready-to-use solution for outdoor plants
- Protection lasts for up to 8 weeks after application; the granular treatment is absorbed into the roots and continues to move through the plant to provide protection against listed insects; this protection will not be washed away with water
Bonide Granular Insecticide provides fast-acting control of pill bugs on contact and offers residual protection for up to 3-4 months. The granular formulation is easy to apply with a spreader and is effective on a wide range of lawn and landscape pests.
For homeowners seeking a long-lasting insecticide for pill bug control, Bonide Granular Insecticide delivers exceptional results. The extended residual protection and proven effectiveness make it a trusted choice for comprehensive pest control.
Pros:
- Long-lasting residual control
- Fast-acting control
- Easy granular application
- Broad-spectrum activity
- Versatile use
- Water-in formulation
- Proven effectiveness
Cons:
- Affects beneficial insects
- Requires watering in
- Not for use on food crops
6. EcoSMART Organic Insecticide – Best Plant-Based Insecticide For Pill Bugs
EcoSMART Organic Insecticide is a plant-based insecticide that provides effective control of pill bugs and other garden pests. This product contains plant-based essential oils, including rosemary and peppermint, that naturally repel and kill pests. The organic formulation is safe for use around children, pets, and beneficial insects.
- Safe and effective way to kill and strongly repel over 100 Home invading pests including multiple types of ants, cockroaches, fleas, and more
- EcoSmart is non-staining, safe enough to be used inside the home and strong enough to be used along the outside perimeter of your home
EcoSMART provides fast-acting control of pill bugs on contact. The plant-based formulation kills pests quickly while being safe for the environment. The ready-to-use spray is convenient and easy to apply.
For homeowners seeking a plant-based insecticide for pill bug control, EcoSMART delivers effective results. The organic formulation and proven effectiveness make it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious gardeners.
Pros:
- Plant-based formula
- Safe for children and pets
- Safe for beneficial insects
- Fast-acting control
- Ready-to-use spray
- Environmentally friendly
- Pleasant scent
Cons:
- Shorter residual activity
- Requires frequent application
- Higher price point
7. Talstar PL Granular – Best Professional-Grade Insecticide For Pill Bugs
Talstar PL Granular is a professional-grade insecticide that provides exceptional control of pill bugs and other lawn pests. This granular product contains bifenthrin, which offers both contact and residual control of pill bugs. The long-lasting formulation reduces the need for frequent applications.
- Broadcast insecticide granules
- Sand core granular structure, provides a 2 to 4 month residual
Talstar PL provides up to 3-6 months of residual protection against pill bugs and other listed pests. The granular formulation is easy to apply with a spreader and is effective on a wide range of lawn and landscape pests. The product is water-resistant once it dries.
For homeowners and professionals seeking professional-grade pest control, Talstar PL Granular delivers exceptional results. The extended residual protection and proven effectiveness make it a trusted choice for comprehensive lawn care.
Pros:
- Long-lasting residual
- Professional-grade formula
- Easy granular application
- Broad-spectrum control
- Water-resistant once dry
- Up to 6 months protection
- Proven effectiveness
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Affects beneficial insects
- Requires watering in
8. Niban Granular Bait – Best Bait Insecticide For Pill Bugs
Niban Granular Bait is a highly effective bait formulation that provides excellent control of pill bugs and other crawling pests. This product contains boric acid, which is effective through ingestion. The bait formulation attracts pill bugs and provides control that lasts for extended periods.
- EFFECTIVE AGAINST MULTIPLE SPECIES: Specifically attracts ants (except fire ants), cockroaches, crickets, silverfish, earwigs, slugs, and snails; food-grade ingredients make it highly attractive for consistent results.
- WEATHER-RESISTANT GRANULES: Designed to withstand rain, heat, and sunlight without degrading; maintains effectiveness longer than other baits, offering long-lasting control for indoor and outdoor use.
Niban Granular Bait works by attracting pill bugs to the bait, which they then consume. The boric acid disrupts their digestive system, causing death. The bait formulation is effective in both indoor and outdoor applications and provides long-lasting control.
For homeowners seeking a bait insecticide for pill bug control, Niban Granular Bait delivers effective results. The specialized bait formulation and proven effectiveness make it a valuable tool for pest management.
Pros:
- Effective bait formulation
- Long-lasting control
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Attracts pill bugs
- Proven effectiveness
- Versatile application
- Good value
Cons:
- Slower acting than contact insecticides
- Requires pill bugs to consume bait
- May not be effective for immediate control
9. Spectracide Triazicide – Best Broad-Spectrum Insecticide For Pill Bugs
Spectracide Triazicide is a broad-spectrum insecticide that provides effective control of pill bugs and other lawn pests. This liquid formulation contains gamma-cyhalothrin, which offers rapid knockdown and long-lasting residual control. The product is effective on a wide range of lawn and garden pests.
- FAST-ACTING FORMULA: Protects lawns, vegetables, fruit and nut trees, roses, flowers, trees and shrubs
- KILLS 260+ INSECTS BY CONTACT: Above and below ground, including grubs, most ants, fleas, deer ticks, Japanese beetles and more
Triazicide provides fast-acting control of pill bugs and other listed pests. The product offers up to 3 months of residual protection and is effective on a wide range of lawn and landscape pests. The liquid formulation is easy to apply with a sprayer.
For homeowners seeking a broad-spectrum insecticide for pill bug control, Spectracide Triazicide delivers reliable results. The fast-acting formulation and long-lasting protection make it a popular choice for comprehensive lawn care.
Pros:
- Broad-spectrum control
- Fast knockdown
- Long-lasting residual
- Easy liquid application
- Versatile use
- Rainfast formulation
- Proven effectiveness
Cons:
- Affects beneficial insects
- Requires thorough coverage
- Not for use on food crops
10. BioAdvanced Complete Insect Killer – Best Dual-Action Insecticide For Pill Bugs
BioAdvanced Complete Insect Killer is a dual-action insecticide that provides both contact and systemic control of pill bugs and other lawn pests. This product contains imidacloprid and beta-cyfluthrin, offering comprehensive protection. The dual-action formula makes it a versatile choice for lawn care.
- COMPLETE PEST CONTROL: Complete Brand Insect Killer for Soil and Turf controls both listed surface and soil insects with a two-way formula; The 10-pound bag treats up to 10,000 square feet
- KILLS SURFACE INSECTS: Fast-acting insecticide formula kills listed insects including grubs, ticks, and more in 24 hours; Also kills mosquitoes and 30 other listed outdoor pests
The combination of imidacloprid (systemic) and beta-cyfluthrin (contact) provides effective control of pill bugs and other soil-dwelling pests. The product offers up to 3 months of protection and is easy to apply with a spreader. The granular formulation is ideal for lawns and landscape beds.
For homeowners seeking a dual-action insecticide for pill bug control, BioAdvanced Complete Insect Killer delivers exceptional results. The comprehensive protection and proven effectiveness make it a trusted choice for lawn care.
Pros:
- Dual-action formula
- Systemic and contact action
- Up to 3 months protection
- Easy granular application
- Versatile lawn protection
- Proven effectiveness
- Good value
Cons:
- Affects beneficial insects
- Requires watering in
- Not for use on food crops
11. Dr. Killigan’s Insect Buster – Best Dust Insecticide For Pill Bugs
Dr. Killigan’s Insect Buster is a dust insecticide that provides effective control of pill bugs and other crawling pests. This product contains diatomaceous earth and is safe for use around people, pets, and beneficial insects. The dust formulation is easy to apply and provides long-lasting control.
- Natural And Safe
- Available in Two Sizes - The Large INSECT BUSTER holds 14oz and is great for big hands and big spaces. The small INSECT BUSTER is a touch smaller at 8oz and is designed for smaller hands and tight spaces.
Dr. Killigan’s Insect Buster provides long-lasting control when kept dry. The dust adheres to pill bugs and causes dehydration and death. The product is effective on a wide range of crawling insects and pests.
For homeowners seeking a dust insecticide for pill bug control, Dr. Killigan’s Insect Buster delivers effective results. The natural formulation and proven effectiveness make it a popular choice for organic gardening.
Pros:
- Natural formulation
- Safe for people and pets
- Safe for beneficial insects
- Long-lasting when dry
- Easy application
- Environmentally friendly
- Cost-effective
Cons:
- Requires dry conditions
- Dust can be messy
- Slower acting
12. Demand CS Insecticide – Best Professional Liquid Insecticide For Pill Bugs
Demand CS is a professional-grade liquid insecticide that provides exceptional control of pill bugs and other lawn pests. This product contains lambda-cyhalothrin, which offers rapid knockdown and long-lasting residual control. The concentrated formulation is ideal for professional use and large properties.
- Demand cs controls more than 30 Common insects including spiders, ants, flies, wasps, fleas, ticks and bed bugs.
- Demand cs is a water-based insecticide concentrate that offers excellent indoor and outdoor pest control.
Demand CS provides fast-acting control of pill bugs and other listed pests. The product offers up to 3 months of residual protection and is effective on a wide range of lawn and landscape pests. The concentrated formulation allows for precise mixing and application.
For homeowners and professionals seeking a professional-grade liquid insecticide for pill bug control, Demand CS delivers exceptional results. The fast-acting formulation and long-lasting protection make it a trusted choice for comprehensive pest control.
Pros:
- Professional-grade quality
- Fast knockdown
- Long-lasting residual
- Concentrated formulation
- Broad-spectrum control
- Versatile application
- Proven effectiveness
Cons:
- Requires mixing
- Professional handling recommended
- Higher price point
13. Safer Brand Insect Killing Soap – Best Contact Insecticide For Pill Bugs
Safer Brand Insect Killing Soap is a contact insecticide that provides effective control of pill bugs and other soft-bodied insects. This product uses potassium salts of fatty acids to disrupt insect cell membranes, causing dehydration and death. The organic formulation is safe for use around children, pets, and beneficial insects.
- GENTLE ON MOST PLANTS - This aphid spray is ideal for use on flowers, herbs, vegetables, houseplants, lawn, tree, shrubs, and more
- PROTECT PLANTS FROM INSECTS - Insecticidal soap concentrate kills a variety of soft-bodied insect pests, including aphids, mealybugs, whiteflies, leafhopper, spider mites, and more
Insect Killing Soap provides fast-acting control of pill bugs on contact. The product is effective on a wide range of garden pests and is safe for use on vegetables, fruits, and ornamental plants. The ready-to-use formulation makes application simple.
For homeowners seeking a contact insecticide for pill bug control, Safer Brand Insect Killing Soap delivers effective results. The organic formulation and proven effectiveness make it a responsible choice for gardeners.
Pros:
- Organic formulation
- Fast-acting contact control
- Safe for beneficial insects
- Ready-to-use
- Versatile use
- Safe for edible plants
- Proven effectiveness
Cons:
- Contact action only
- Requires thorough coverage
- Shorter residual activity
14. Compare-N-Save Insecticide – Best Value Insecticide For Pill Bugs
Compare-N-Save Insecticide is an affordable liquid insecticide that provides effective control of pill bugs and other lawn pests. This product contains bifenthrin, which offers both contact and residual control. The budget-friendly price makes it accessible to cost-conscious homeowners.
- For use indoors and outdoors
- Can be tank mixed with other pesticides, including insect growth regulators
Compare-N-Save provides fast-acting control of pill bugs and other listed pests. The product offers residual protection for up to 3 months and is effective on a wide range of lawn and landscape pests. The liquid formulation is easy to apply with a sprayer.
For homeowners seeking an affordable insecticide for pill bug control, Compare-N-Save delivers reliable results. The budget-friendly price and proven effectiveness make it a popular choice for regular lawn maintenance.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Fast-acting control
- Long-lasting residual
- Easy liquid application
- Broad-spectrum activity
- Good value
- Proven effectiveness
Cons:
- Affects beneficial insects
- Requires thorough coverage
- Not for use on food crops
15. Terro Ant Killer – Best Bait Insecticide For Indoor Pill Bug Control
Terro Ant Killer is a bait insecticide that provides effective control of pill bugs and other crawling pests indoors. This product contains borax, which is effective through ingestion. The bait formulation attracts pill bugs and provides control that lasts for extended periods.
- ATTRACTS & KILLS: Liquid ant bait stations provide comprehensive ant control, targeting common household ants including acrobat, crazy, ghost, little black, odorous house, and pavement ants throughout your home with effective ant traps indoor
- KILLS THE QUEEN & THE ENTIRE COLONY: TERRO liquid ant bait contains borax-based formula that attracts worker ants to consume and carry back to the colony, effectively eliminating both visible ants and hidden nest populations for complete indoor ant killer control
Terro Ant Killer works by attracting pill bugs to the bait, which they then consume. The borax disrupts their digestive system, causing death. The bait formulation is effective in both indoor and outdoor applications and provides long-lasting control.
For homeowners seeking a bait insecticide for indoor pill bug control, Terro Ant Killer delivers effective results. The specialized bait formulation and proven effectiveness make it a valuable tool for indoor pest management.
Pros:
- Effective bait formulation
- Long-lasting control
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Attracts pill bugs
- Proven effectiveness
- Versatile application
- Good value
Cons:
- Slower acting
- Requires pill bugs to consume bait
- May not be effective for immediate control
7 Essential Tips For Controlling Pill Bugs
- Reduce moisture: Pill bugs thrive in moist environments. Reduce moisture by improving drainage, fixing leaky faucets, and allowing soil to dry between waterings. This makes the environment less favorable for pill bug populations.
- Remove hiding places: Pill bugs hide under mulch, rocks, plant debris, and other objects. Remove these hiding places to reduce shelter and breeding sites. Keep mulch away from foundations and reduce clutter in the garden.
- Apply insecticides at the right time: Apply granular insecticides in the evening or when rain is expected to activate the product. Liquid insecticides should be applied when pill bugs are active, typically in the evening or early morning.
- Choose the right formulation: Granular insecticides are ideal for large areas and provide long-lasting control. Baits are effective for attracting and killing pill bugs. Liquid sprays provide immediate knockdown but may require more frequent application.
- Consider organic options: Diatomaceous earth and spinosad are effective organic options for pill bug control. These products are safe for use around children, pets, and beneficial insects.
- Combine control methods: Integrated pest management combines cultural practices, physical removal, and chemical controls for the most effective and sustainable pill bug management. This approach reduces reliance on chemical insecticides.
- Monitor and persist: Pill bugs can be persistent, so regular monitoring and follow-up treatments may be necessary. Continue cultural practices and reapply insecticides as needed to maintain control.
Frequently Asked Questions About Insecticides For Pill Bugs
1. What is the best insecticide for pill bugs?
Sevin Insect Killer Granules is widely considered the best insecticide for pill bugs, offering fast-acting control and long-lasting residual protection. For organic options, Monterey Garden Insect Spray and diatomaceous earth are effective choices.
2. Are pill bugs harmful to plants?
Pill bugs primarily feed on decaying organic matter but can damage young plants, seedlings, and tender roots when populations are high. They may also feed on low-growing fruits like strawberries that touch the soil.
3. How do I apply insecticide for pill bugs?
Apply granular insecticides with a spreader and water in immediately. Apply liquid insecticides as a spray, focusing on areas where pill bugs are active. Apply baits in areas where pill bugs are frequently seen.
4. Are pill bugs dangerous to humans?
No, pill bugs are not dangerous to humans. They do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases. They are harmless crustaceans that can become a nuisance when populations are high.
5. Can I use diatomaceous earth for pill bug control?
Yes, diatomaceous earth is an effective natural insecticide for pill bug control. The powder dehydrates pill bugs on contact and provides long-lasting control when kept dry.
6. How do I prevent pill bugs from entering my home?
Prevent pill bug entry by sealing cracks and gaps around foundations, doors, and windows. Remove leaf litter and debris from around the foundation, and keep mulch at least 6 inches away from the house.
7. How often should I apply insecticide for pill bugs?
Application frequency depends on the product used. Granular insecticides typically provide 2-4 months of protection. Baits may need to be replenished regularly. Follow product label instructions for specific reapplication intervals.
Conclusion
Choosing the best insecticide for pill bugs is essential for protecting your garden and landscape from these common pests. Sevin Insect Killer Granules earned our top recommendation for its fast-acting control, long-lasting residual protection, and versatility in addressing pill bug infestations. Ortho BugClear Insect Killer emerged as a close runner-up for its effective granular formulation and reliable performance.
For homeowners seeking organic pest control solutions, Monterey Garden Insect Spray and Safer Brand Diatomaceous Earth offer effective, eco-friendly alternatives that are safe for people, pets, and beneficial insects. For those seeking bait formulations, Niban Granular Bait and Terro Ant Killer provide effective control through ingestion.
When selecting an insecticide for pill bug control, consider the area of application, the severity of the infestation, and your preferences for natural or synthetic formulations. Combined with cultural practices like reducing moisture and removing hiding places, the right insecticide will help you effectively manage pill bug populations and protect your garden.