Insects Can Be Beneficial to Gardens

Not all insects are detrimental to gardens. By encouraging beneficial insects to roost among your plants you can reduce the need for chemical pesticides.

If you’ve taken a close look at your garden lately, you may have noticed that certain insect life has taken up residence amongst your impatiens and pansies. From the smallest mites to larger caterpillars, the wrong insects can wreak havoc on your plants. However, by encouraging the right insects to move in you can continue to maintain a healthy, blooming garden.

Many common insects can act as a natural pesticide for the villainous foes of plant life. According to The University of Georgia College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, natural enemies are an important component of integrated pest management — and a more economically sound option as well. Here is a brief listing of some beneficial garden insects:

Ladybug: It feeds on aphids, chinch bugs, whiteflies, and mites, as well as many other soft-bodied insects and their eggs.

Praying Mantis: It enjoys a wide range of pests, including aphids, flies, and beetles. A curious critter, it may also keep you company while gardening.

Spined Soldier Bug: It feeds on several pest species of caterpillars and beetle larvae. It is attracted to perennial beds for shelter.

Predator Mite: It is very useful in controlling spider mites and two spotted mites both indoors and in your outdoor garden.