Attract Beneficial Insects to Your Garden by Planting These 5 Stunning Floral Species
Hangin' with the Lil' Red Bugs
Ever fancied inviting some helpers to do the dirty work for you in your garden? We've got some top tips on how to make friends with ladybirds — everyone's favorite pest controllers!
Ladybirds (also known as ladybugs) are nature's best defense against garden pests, like aphids. And if you're down to have these tiny red champions on duty at your garden this season, you'll be pleased to know the secret recipe for their garden parties.
If you're aiming to create a vibrant garden paradise for these bug tycoons, these five plants are your key.
1. Dill and Fennel
Tossing around a bit of thyme and planning on building a herb garden? Dill (~£3) and Fennel (~£6) plants will be the perfect addition to your party invite list. Why? Ladybirds adore plants with a strong aroma!
These super plants serve a double purpose — they attract aphids (a ladybird's favorite snack) and boast clusters of small flowers that offer nectar and pollen. Although ladybirds are mainly carnivorous, they nibble on nectar and pollen, especially during early spring when other food may be scarce. Moreover, these flowery shelters make for excellent ladybug nurseries.
2. Nasturtium
Looking to throw a bash worth buzzing about? Drop some nasturtium seeds (~£2.50) in a sunny spot, and these pretty plants will start blooming (June to October) in no time. Plus, they double as trap plants for pesky aphids away from crops. Trap-yeah!
Bonus points: Since ladybirds enjoy feasting on the flowers' nectar, these colorful party guests will be more than happy to attend the event.
3. Marigolds
Meet Marigolds (~£2) – the ultimate superheroes of gardens! Renowned for their aphid-battling prowess, marigolds' bright, eye-catching blooms draw in helpful pollinators while enticing pest-munching critters like ladybirds.
Chuck 'em in garden borders or between veggie and flower rows for a non-stop color explosion from spring through fall, ensuring continuous food sources throughout the season.
4. Yarrow
Give your garden an unexpected upgrade with Yarrow (~£2)! This long-lasting beauty is available in a variety of hues and can transform your space while luring in ladybirds with its plentiful nectar and cozy flower enclosures.
5. Cosmos
Extend the party invite list with Cosmos (~£12) – this summer bloomer offers delicious nectar and pollen to ladybirds over a long period. Keep your garden buzzing all year round by planting it in early spring. But, if you can't wait that long, grab yourself a bedding plant like the stunning Apollo Lovesong variety (~£15) and let the good vibes flow!
Lure Them In
Who said attraction had to be hard work? Whip up a cocktail brew of water and sugar (served in a spray bottle) and spray it around the garden to lure those little red heroes to your party.
Up your garden game even further by crafting a ladybird condo out of bamboo, straw, or hollow stems. That way, they've got a comfy place to lay their eggs and rest during the colder months.
Keep these party planning insights in mind, and you'll have an unforgettable insect event, attracting ladybirds that will keep your garden free of pests, all while offering nature's support.
Incorporating certain plants in your home-and-garden setup can greatly enhance your lifestyle by attracting beneficial insects like ladybirds. For example, dill and fennel, which are strong-smelling herbs in a home-and-garden setup, are perfect additions for welcoming ladybirds due to their appeal to these insects. Similarly, cosmos, with its long-lasting blooms and abundance of nectar, is an excellent choice for nurturing ladybirds throughout the summer. By following this home-and-garden strategy, insulation from garden pests can be obtained in a sustainable and garden-friendly manner, thereby improving your lifestyle and garden's health.
