When it comes to insects, some people think of harmful insects, but in fact, not all insects are harmful. There are some species called beneficial insects that can help deter and control pests in your garden. Filling your garden with beneficial insects means you don’t have to use pesticides and other chemicals to eliminate their invasions. And in the post today, we will share the 5 Most Common Beneficial Insects And Ways to Attract Them For Your Garden that you should know!
Although these insects have an ugly appearance, they have surprised power. They can kill harmful insects and protect your favorite plants and are environmentally friendly as well. While there are many insects that perform beneficial roles in the garden but here are the top of the beneficial insects to use to best advantage. So, if you are looking for ways to get rid of harmful insects, these are good methods to try. Now, let check them out!
#1 Tachnid Flies
Image Credits: Plantcaretoday
These Tachinid flies look very similar to the troublesome housefly, except for the very stout bristles on their abdomen.
Way to attract them: Growing small-flowered herbs or favored flowers such as thyme, dill, cilantro, parsley fennel, phlox, aster, daisy, and Queen Anne’s Lace.
#2 Aphidoletes (Aphid midge)
Image Credits: Bugguide
Aphidoletes (Aphid midge) is so tiny, only 2-3 mm, it resembles a minuscule mosquito. It is an efficient predator to supplement your garden. It needs a water source and plants that produce plenty of nectar and pollen.
#3 Ground Beetles
Image Credits: Parkwaypestservices
Ground Beetles has a large beetle with formidable jaws to take down pretty big prey. It loves eating cutworms, wireworms, slugs, maggots, and another caterpillar.
Way to attract: You can provide habitat for this beneficial insect by setting aside some undisturbed areas of debris and low ground cover within a short distance from the garden beds.
#4 Ladybugs
Image Credits: Thoughtco
Ladybugs are one of the most common good bugs in the garden. They target and deter aphids and other pests.
You can grow some flowers that attract ladybugs such as Angelica, Calendula, Caraway, Chives, Cilantro, Cosmos, Dill, Fennel, Feverfew, Marigold, Statice, Sweet, Alyssum, Yarrow. Or some other plants including Cabbage, Marigold, Nasturtium, and Radish.
#5 Orius
Image Credits: Freenatureimages
Orius repel mites, aphids, small caterpillars, and thrips in onions, flowers, and vegetable crops. They can be attracted with vetch, sweet clover, alfalfa, and daisies, so you can grow these plants to invite them to your garden.