Keeping unwanted insects and the creepy crawlies out of the house is on most people’s agenda, but what about in the garden? Not all insects are harmful to your garden plants, in fact there are many insects that are actually beneficial. The beneficial insects are like watch dogs for your garden; they will be your aide and rid your garden of the harmful pests.
What are some common beneficial garden insects? Here are a few examples:
- Lady Bugs: The lady bug is one of the most popular of the beneficial insects. Lady bugs are the perfect opponent to have on your side when battling pesky aphids. These helpful beetles also eat mealy bugs and other soft bodied insects.
- Praying Mantis: The praying mantis is like the T-Rex of the garden, it can handle even the largest garden insect pest. They have the ability to camouflage with the surroundings of the garden and snatch up a great deal of pests.
- Green Lacewings: The adult green lacewings feed on honeydew, nectar and pollen. The green lacewing larvae are where the benefits start to kick in. The larvae will consume crazy amounts of aphids and also feast on other soft bodied insects.
- Spiders: Ok, so spiders aren’t every ones favorite helpful side kick, but they can sure stay on top of insect control in the garden. The great thing is that, spiders won’t harm your plants; they’re just there to hang out and catch some dinner in their web. Spiders will eat many insects such as aphids, caterpillars, flies and many other pests they may be trying to eat your plants.
Next time you think you may need a little extra help in the garden, don’t forget about all the beneficial garden helpers out there! If you are working the a professional pest control company, you can ask for your garden and surrounding area not to be treated.
