Spring Time Garden Tips:
Most people think of insects in their garden are annoying pests that eat away at their hard-earned crops. But, there are just as many insects out there that can actually help your garden thrive. These insects protect our gardens by eating harmful pests and pollinating certain plants. This is why it is very important to distinguish between the bad insects and the good insects.
Ladybugs
Ladybugs are one of the most commonly seen insects in general, and are popular among gardeners for their ability to get rid of pests. Ladybugs are the primary predator of aphids, and have been known for consume up to 50 a day. And they also eat many other common gardening pests such as scales, mealybugs, leaf hoppers, mites and lots other soft-bodied insects.
Hoverflies
Hoverflies are a family of fly that is commonly mistaken for wasps or bees due to their distinctive yellow-black pattern. Many species of hoverflies have proven useful to gardeners, as hoverfly larvae feeds on aphids located on garden plants and crops. Aside from eating harmful pests, hoverflies are also useful for the fact that they contribute to pollination.
Green lacewings
Green Lacewings are another great predatory insect to have around the garden. Green lacewings lay their eggs on the end of vegetable stocks, which protect their larvae from predators and also protect the crops from pests. Green lacewing larvae are often referred to as “aphid lions” in the gardening community due to their large appetite for aphids. They also prey on other soft-bodied pests such as mites, thrips, mealybugs, whiteflies and small caterpillars.
Ground beetles
Ground beetles are great for getting rid of pests that can be found in your soil as well as on your plants. Ground beetles feed on common invertebrate pests such as aphids, caterpillars, maggots and slugs. Ground beetles also act as an effective natural herbicide by preventing harmful weeds from popping up in your garden.
So don't get rid of those helpful insects, but if you have other concerns or problems, give us a call at DIAL ONE Franklynn Pest Control. ENTOMOLOGY CONSULTING & INSECT IDENTIFICATION
504-885-3101
