Feel like bugs are taking
over your backyard? Don’t sweat it—of all the millions of insects in the world,
the vast majority of them are entirely harmless. And many of them stand ready
to keep the “bad” bug population in check. Some of the most prolific predators
are assassin bugs, ground beetles, minute pirate bugs, and—of course—ladybugs.
These pest control workers will quickly find their way to any flowers that are
rich in pollen and nectar. But the secret to keeping them on the job in your
yard is to follow this recruitment policy:
·
Lay off
pesticides. I know that’s a frightening thought if you’ve been using them for a
long time, but you can bet your bottom dollar that if you quit cold turkey,
throngs of good guys will show up and start chowing down on the bag bugs in no
time flat.
·
Give them a
drink. Sink a few plant saucers into the ground, set some pebbles inside, and
pour in water. It gives insects—and insect eaters like toads, frogs, birds, and
bats—a place to quench their thirst.
·
Mix it up. Plant
a mixed bag of flowers, herbs, veggies, trees, and shrubs. The more menu and
shelter options you offer up, the more kinds of helpers will come a callin’—and
the more kinds of pests they’ll polish off.
·
Go native. If you
want a first-class dream team on your side, look for plants that are native to
your neck of the woods. I guarantee that local heroes will flock to your
doorstep!
If you’re confused about
what kinds of flowers to plant, don’t worry. Although a few bugs have very
definite tastes, most are pleased as punch with any flower that’s rich in
pollen and nectar. But it’s important to plant a mixture of flowers so that
something will always be in bloom throughout the growing season. That way,
you’ll attract a variety of insects and they’ll always have flowers to sip
from. Surefire winners include asters, cosmos, mint, morning glories, and
yarrow.
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