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There are a number of good insects that can compete for the title of best natural aphid killer. Having any one or a combination of them can make aphid control a non-issue in your garden. Hosting the good guys is a simple matter of providing the right mixtures of flora and abstaining from using pesticides or insecticides.
Ladybugs, lacewings, and damsel bug nymphs all are voracious aphid eaters but the ladybug wins the award of being the number one natural aphid killer. One adult lady beetle can wipe out 5,000 aphids in its lifetime. When a ladybug finds a good environment it settles in and lays eggs which hatch in less than two weeks time. The ladybug lays the eggs near an aphid infestation so when the larvae hatch they will have a nearby food source. Ladybug larvae consume hundreds and hundreds of aphids. It is the larvae of the lacewing that are also natural aphid killer machines. Damsel bug nymphs also consume massive numbers of aphids after hatching.
When you have one of the natural aphid killers present in your garden, the use of any insecticide or pesticide needs to be stopped. Unfortunately, the sprays kill insects rather indiscriminately and the beneficial bugs more often than not. In light of the list of chemicals and compounds that have been used in the past for pest control and are now known to cause health issues in humans, holding back on them in favor of allowing the beneficial insects do their job should not be too difficult. The presence of two or more of the natural aphid killer insects will assure you will not be suffering from an infestation of aphids.
Inviting native ladybugs, lacewings and damsel bugs to your outdoor environment is a matter of providing plants, water, and shelter from the wind. Herbs are a favorite nectar and pollen source. Dill, caraway, spearmint and lemon balm are all enticing plants for ladybugs. The non-weed tansy is a lady beetle favorite. White cosmos, clovers, and wild flowers are all favored by beneficial garden insects. A water source can be a pool or water feature or just a shallow container of water with people in it will provide the water needed. The most important thing to provide is an insecticide, pesticide free zone. More beneficial bugs have been killed by the manufactured solutions than the insects targeted. Finally, provide your natural aphid killer patrol places to escape from wind and rain. Perennial borders and thick mulches of cut grass provide the insects with protection from the weather elements that occur during the growing season. As winter approaches, those same plants offer shelter until the following spring.
Natural aphid killer insects come in many sizes and shapes. When the habitat is right the beneficial bugs will make a home, lay their eggs and keep the positive cycle of natural pest control running smoothly. Their presence not only improves your garden, it improves the overall environment for you and your family.
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Author Bio Box: Patricia Wainwright
Get all the facts about beneficial insects and gardening articles at GreenThumbArticles.com!
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