We are all familiar with the ways in which unwelcome insects in our gardens destroy and disrupt our gardens. From the nibbles on delectable fruits and vegetables, to parasitising and affecting the health of our plants. Though is this true of all insects? Are all insects we come across in the garden a pest, enemy or foe?
Some insects that frequent our gardens are friends that offer benefits to our plants. The most popular and well known beneficial insect are pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and certain flies carry pollen from one flower to another to ensure fruiting takes place. Pollinators are attracted to flowers, not only those that need to be pollinated, but including a variety of flowers in your garden ensures that a diversity of pollinators are attracted to your garden.
Other types of beneficial insects are predatory insects. These insects hunt other insects, typically those that are pests. Ladybugs, praying mantis, and dragonflies are all types of predatory insects. Predatory insects are also attracted by flowers, but also require areas to shelter under mulch or in grass.
Finally, but not least, are the decomposers. These types of beneficial insects enrich the soil and improve soil structure. Insects such as worms (although not technically classified as insects), certain beetles, and maggots are types of decomposers. They require organic material to decompose in order to attract them to your garden.
