roly poly/pill bug problem

I have planted potatoes for the first time - they are growing beautifully with SNG.

Yesterday I noticed holes in many of the leaves. Last night I went out a looked for the cause and found more than I could count roly poly's or pill bugs. You know, those things that you usually find hidden under a rock or dead tree branch.

Not knowing what to do, I read your discussions and found that one person had used diluted dishsoap (liquid) along with Coco Wet and sprayed everything well.

I don't know if that has worked, I will check them tonight.

What else can I do?

I had my first vegetable garden last year (Square Foot Gardening). Very successful.

This year I have added more gardening space and SNG.

Any suggestions that you can give me will be greatly appreciated.

Suzanne

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Permalink Reply by Natalie on June 10, 2011 at 11:30am

I have done a little research and have learned a few things. According to some o fthe blogs I have read, the bugs I always called roly poly bugs are sometimes called potato bugs. Since they are 'bugging' your pototoes, I think that may be the same critter. i recommend a pesticide like Pyrethrins. It is labeled for fruits and vegetables, as well as ornamentals and is labeled for a lot of different insects. Good luck!

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Permalink Reply by Suzanne on June 22, 2011 at 5:37am

Hi Natalie, Thank you. I purchased the Pyrethrins as you suggested and it seems to be working. The plants are now blooming blue flowers.