You probably know this by now: Not all bugs are bad bugs, especially when it concerns your tomatoes and azaleas. In fact, using insects to control other insect pests is rapidly gaining popularity and can provide a long-term organic solution to what’s eating and otherwise damaging your plants. There are many reasons not to use pesticides, and the main one is antennae-raising: Some 500 insect pests are now resistant to today’s chemical arsenal. So many savvy growers have enlisted the help of natural predators to rid their gardens of menacing munchers.
Praying Mantis »
This carnivorous insect can grow up to six inches long, depending on species. A master of disguise, the mantis blends into its environment and waits motionless with front legs poised — as if in prayer — for a meal. A ferocious predator, the mantis will attack any insect in its path (unfortunately, some beneficial insects also fall victim). Shipped as egg cases, they require six weeks of warm weather before 50-200 nymphs hatch. Not super mobile, some will disperse, some will be cannibalized by their brothers and sisters, but many will survive and stick around, so it’s possible to watch them grow all summer long.
« Ladybug
Ladybugs are the most popular of the garden predators. The adult beetle and their dark-gray-and-orange-marked larvae feed on aphids and a variety of other mites and eggs. Ladybugs will happily dine on about 40 to 50 aphids a day. Adults can be purchased and usually come in cotton bags mixed with wood shavings. The only drawback is that they’re flighty. A proper release is crucial, but even then expect a good number to fly away, as it is just their nature. However, because of their hearty appetite, great numbers are not needed to control unwanted garden crashers.
« Green Lacewing
When it’s time to bring out the big guns, order lacewing larvae. Also known as aphid lions, these critters are the most voracious garden predators. They can consume up to 60 aphids an hour and will feast on a number of other species, including scales and mealybugs. Lacewings are usually purchased as eggs or larvae; adults t/files/storyimages/to be a bit nomadic and only feed on nectar and pollen.
To recruit a backyard army of your own, visit St. Matthews Feed and Seed (
