Natural Insect predators

[Bowsnbucks]

I was just doing some research on syrphid flies, lacewings, ladybugs, etc. These beneficial insects help control aphids, mites, thrips, and other BAD insects. It turns out, one of the best ways to attract the GOOD bugs is to plant a variety of flowers that they normally are attracted to for nectar.

Some of the listed plants / flowers that attract the GOOD bugs are: buckwheat, Queen Anne's Lace, yarrow, Bachelor's buttons, daisy, Coreopsis, Goldenrod.

By attracting the GOOD bugs with the flowers, they'll lay their eggs anywhere they find BAD bugs, and when they hatch, the larva eat the aphids, mites, thrips, etc. In some cases - I believe Ladybugs are one - the adults will also eat the BAD bugs. Easier and cheaper than spray. Every little bit helps, and the more natural - the better.

 

[Merle Hawggard]

Bows,
I sent the paperwork in yesterday about our acres for wildlife program.
I've been wanting to plant a pollinator plot and if I'm approved, they supply the seed.
I think it will be really benificial as well plus look awesome!

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[Bowsnbucks]

Merle - That's cool !! If they supply the seed, you're way ahead. I hope you get the approval. I'd like to get a pollinator plot started at camp - besides our buckwheat that we always plant. I think we'll have to BUY our seed though. Ernst Seed Co. has a batch of seed mixes for various needs.