Harvestmen
categories: Natural Enemies Other Natural Enemies
last review date: 2025-08-23 05:29
Photo by: D.G. James
Biology
Closely related to spiders, harvestmen are well known as daddy-long-legs and are common in gardens. The body of daddy-long-legs may only measure 1/4 inch, but the legs may stretch for 1 to 1.5 inches!
Most species are omnivores feeding on small insects and mites as well as plants, fungi and dead organisms. So, although not as useful as spiders and mites, they do play a small pest control role in gardens.
The story that harvestmen are the most venomous animals in the world is assuredly a myth! They do not contain venom, nor can they puncture the human skin.
Prey or Pest Targeted
- Small larvae, beetles, mites, aphids, earthworms, slugs, spiders
Attracting and Keeping Natural Enemies
and Pollinators in Your Yard and Garden
- Native plants provide essential resources.
- Native flora also provides natural overwintering sites.
- Natural dispersion from nearby habitats ensures visitation.
- Some kinds of beneficial insects predatory mites are commercially available.
- Avoid regular use of synthetic, broad-spectrum pesticides.
- Infrequent use of certain narrow-spectrum pesticides is more compatible with some beneficials.
- Extensive lawns are also not conducive to attracting beneficial insects.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- None recommended
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.