Three More Beneficial Insects


© Carla Goodloe
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Continuing the beneficial insect collection, check out these three good bugs:

Beneficial Nematodes

This soil dwelling worm gets inside maggots and worms and reproduces. The nematodes release a bacterium and it kills the bad pests. You can purchase nematodes in groups of millions. They can be refrigerated up to 3 months. You apply them when you water. Follow label directions. This method could take up to 2 mths to have any effect so begin early in your season.

Praying Mantis (Mantids)

Most southern states know what I'm talking about when I say praying mantis. This beautiful green creature is not only fun to watch but is a semi-good addition to your garden.

These are purchased as eggs. They are not a good value because you won't get many adult mantids from the eggs. They eat each other and other good pests. So you may not want to use them unless you just love to look at them. Ladybugs make a better value. If you can't keep ladybugs or other beneficials around, try the mantids and see if they will stick around.

Predatory Mite

This beneficial eats mites and mexican bean beetles. Purchase these and follow the directions. They are used widely in greenhouses to control these type of pests. They prefer warm climates so if you are in cooler climates, you may want to try something else.

You can purchase insects at http://www.gardensalive.com

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