Young hatch from the eggs and undergo a series of molts, during which the number of segments in increased. It often takes more than one year to reach sexual maturity. The females of sowbugs and pillbugs carry the young in a pouch on the underside of her body until the young leave the pouch. They may have 2 or more broods per year. Sowbugs often live to be 2 years old.
Centipedes are predaceous, feeding on insects, spiders and other small animals.
They do not cause damage to plants. In the home millipedes, sowbugs and centipedes may be swept up and disposed of out of doors. Correct the conditions that lead to excess moisture indoors, repair cracks in foundations and caulk around basement windows and other entryways. Keep ground level entrance areas free of decaying leaves and debris. Trim shrubs or other plantings to promote air circulation near foundations, patios, and other similar places to allow additional drying.