Getting rid of pesky bugs is hard, but it can be done.
Learn how to identify the bad ones so you know when they’re in your garden, as well as which insects are beneficial for your plants!
Aphid Midge
The sweet smell of pollen plants will entice these insects to your property.
Braconid Wasps
The adult female of this species injects its eggs into host insects, including caterpillars and moths.
The larvae feeds on it before killing the unfortunate host in order to feed itself! In order to attract braconid wasps, plant flowers with small petals such as dill and parsley, or wild carrot.
Damsel Bugs
Damsel bugs will eat any pest that is lurking in your garden. Collect them from the alfalfa fields after sweeping with a net, then release it into your veggie patch!
Ground Beetles
Ground beetles love eating pests in your garden. One larva can eat more than 50 caterpillars, so it is important to plant perennials or white clover for protection from these hungry insects!
Lacewings
Lacewings eat a variety of different insects, from aphids to caterpillars. Plant angelica and cosmos in your garden for lacewing food sources!
Lady Beetles
Lady beetles are attracted to gardens in order to eat pesky aphids, mealy bugs and other plant pests.
To welcome these hungry insects into your garden you should plant angelica flowers or fennel seeds which both have strong odors that ladybeetles find irresistible!
Minute Pirate Bugs
Minute Pirate Bugs might not be the most aesthetically pleasing creatures, but they will attack almost any insect.
To attract them to your garden plant these plants: goldenrods, daisies and alfalfa with yarrow as well!
Soldier Beetles
Soilders beetles feed on aphids and caterpillars. To attract them, plant catnip or goldenrod in your garden to make it smell good for the insects!
Spined Soldier Bug
You should plant permanent beds of perennials and ensure shelter for this predator. This bug is an effective way to keep hairless caterpillars from infesting your garden, as well as beetle larvae!
Tachinid Flies
Tachinid flies are easily attracted to the nectars of Queen Anne’s lace and other plants that bear flat-topped florets, including carrots. To attract these hungry insects try growing cilantro or dill in your garden!