Tips to Control How To Get Rid of Surinam Cockroach

Surinam cockroaches are common in the Southeastern part of the United States, from North Carolina to Texas, but can also be found in other regions. Their habitat includes lawn thatch, humus, beneath rocks, mold, burrowing in loose soil, woodpiles, rotten branches, leaf litter, trash bags, potted plants, greenhouses, and other garden debris. Surinam cockroaches are said to be garden dwellers causing extensive damage by feeding on plants.

Heated greenhouses are a favorite of Surinam roaches where large numbers can be found hiding because these roaches need very high heat and humidity levels to survive. Their mean diet however consists of decomposing plant material for example compost, leaves, mulch, feces, vegetables, an fruits.

Surinam Cockroach Identification

Surinam cockroaches are small and stout, about 18 to 25mm in length. Their bodies are dark brown to black with shiny, pale browns.

Surinam Cockroach Lifecycle

The development from egg to adult varies, from 160 to 220 days, nymphs go through 6 molting stages. The adult female Surinam roach lives for about 307 days.

Signs of Surinam Cockroach Infestation

Signs you may have a Surinam cockroach infestation.

• Seeing lots of them dead or alive.
• Damage plants may be another indication since these roaches love to hang out in garden areas

Cultural Practices to Control Surinam Cockroaches

Good cultural practices, without the use of pesticides or a limited amount of pesticides, can help manage these pests based on the level of infestation.

• Because Surinam Cockroaches love to use organic matter as a food source make sure to keep your garden beds swept up and clear of leaf litter.
• Wood piles should be stored of the ground on racks or if left on the ground treat the woodpile with insecticides for cockroach control.
• Rotten branches and other plant materials should be discarded.
• Insecticides for the control of roaches should be applied to mulch.
• Keep your garden and landscapes weed-free as much as possible to discourage Surinam cockroaches from using overgrown weeds as a harborage.

Insecticides to Control Surinam Cockroaches

As said earlier insecticides can be applied to control Surinam cockroaches.

• Insecticides can be applied to your greenhouse.
• Applying residual insecticides around your home will act as a barrier to keep Surinam cockroaches away.
• Apply roach water-resistance roach baits to flower beds, before the application of roach baits read and follow the manufacturer’s directions according to the directions on the label.

Keep Surinam Cockroaches Outdoors

Although Surinam roaches are garden dwellers they can find ways indoors that can lead to an infestation but here is how to bring control.

• Seal all entry points, inspect for cracks and crevices in your home’s building foundation, and seal with caulk or other sealant.
• Applying residual insecticides around your home will act as a barrier to keep Surinam cockroaches away.
• Make sure that the screens on your window or door is not damaged.
• Inspect outdoor potted plants before bringing them indoors.
• Install garden plants a few feet away from your home’s foundation.
• Your door sweep should be in good repair and if damaged replaced.
• Openings where plumbing and utility pipes enter your home should be sealed with caulk.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a Surinam cockroach and how is it different from other roaches?
The Surinam cockroach (Pycnoscelus surinamensis) is a burrowing, tropical species that thrives in warm, moist environments like greenhouses, mulch beds, and potted plants. Unlike other roaches, all Surinam cockroaches found in the U.S. are female and reproduce without mating—so infestations can grow fast. They’re not the ones raiding your kitchen at night, but they’re a big problem outdoors and in plant-rich areas.

2. Are Surinam cockroaches harmful to humans?
They’re not dangerous in the traditional sense—they don’t bite or carry diseases like some other roaches—but they can damage plant roots and spread bacteria in garden soil. Plus, let’s be honest: no one wants cockroaches crawling around their home or yard.

3. Where do Surinam cockroaches usually hide?
These roaches love to burrow into soil and mulch. You’ll often find them under flower pots, in garden beds, compost piles, or around foundation plantings. Indoors, they hide in potted plants or near warm, humid spaces like laundry rooms and basements.

4. How can I tell if I have a Surinam cockroach problem?
Look for adult roaches crawling in your mulch, especially in the evening. You may also notice leaf damage or see them scurrying when you move potted plants. A sudden increase in cockroach sightings outdoors or in your greenhouse is a red flag.

5. What’s the best way to get rid of Surinam cockroaches naturally?
Start by drying things out. These pests love moisture. Remove excess mulch, avoid overwatering your plants, and improve drainage. Diatomaceous earth sprinkled around plant bases can help kill them without chemicals. Also, introducing beneficial nematodes to your soil can target the roaches at the larval stage.

6. Can I use insecticides to eliminate Surinam cockroaches?
Yes, but choose wisely. Use insecticides labeled for outdoor cockroach control and apply them to mulch beds, cracks in foundation walls, and plant containers. Baits and perimeter sprays can also be effective, especially when used consistently. Always follow label instructions to avoid harming beneficial insects.

7. Will removing mulch help control the infestation?
Absolutely. Surinam cockroaches love hiding in thick layers of mulch because it offers warmth, moisture, and cover. Removing old mulch or replacing it with gravel or another dry ground cover can make your yard far less inviting to them.

8. Can Surinam cockroaches infest potted plants?
Yes, and they love them! The moist soil and shaded pots are perfect hiding spots. If you find roaches in your potted plants, remove the plant, inspect the roots, and consider repotting it with fresh, sterile soil. You can also soak the pot in soapy water to flush out any hidden roaches.

9. Is it possible to prevent Surinam cockroaches from coming back?
Prevention is key. Keep mulch to a minimum, fix leaky outdoor faucets, elevate pots off the ground, and avoid overwatering. Sealing cracks around your home’s foundation also helps keep them out. Regularly inspect and clean garden areas to discourage re-infestation.

10. Should I call a pest control professional for Surinam cockroaches?
If the infestation is large or spreading indoors, it’s a smart move. Professionals have access to stronger, targeted treatments and can inspect hard-to-reach areas like crawl spaces. They’ll also help you identify the exact source of the infestation, which is crucial for long-term success.

Conclusion

Surinam Cockroaches can be controlled by following this guide, don’t wait until you have an infestation on your hand take quick action to manage their population, remember by making your outdoor living space or garden area uninviting will discourage their presence creating a pest-free zone.