How should I introduce beneficial insects to my garden?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.When introducing beneficial insects, picking the right timing and preparing the habitat correctly is essential to ensuring an effective introduction. I learned this lesson after my first release of ladybugs flew away overnight - I released them during the day! Ladybugs are best introduced at dusk when the temperature does not exceed 85°F. Additionally, when releasing them, try to target areas with active pest infestations so they have immediate access to food.
Hydration Setup
- Mist plants thoroughly 2 hours before release
- Place shallow water dishes with pebbles nearby
- Avoid creating standing water that breeds mosquitoes
- Replenish water sources every 48 hours
Food Sources
- Plant quick-blooming nectar sources like alyssum
- Maintain small aphid colonies on sacrificial plants
- Supplement with sugar-water sprays if needed
- Avoid pesticide-treated plants for 3 weeks minimum
Shelter Creation
- Install insect hotels with bamboo tubes
- Leave leaf litter in garden corners
- Use straw mulch in vegetable beds
- Place flat stones for ground beetle cover
Release methods can vary depending on the type of insect. For ladybugs, place them carefully over the base of plants during cooler periods of the day. With parasitic wasps, put the cards on top of infested plants. On my second attempt, I adhered more closely to these species-specific methods, and this attempt was successful.
Monitoring after release ensures establishment. Daily inspection of insect activity and pest depopulation is needed. I have yellow sticky traps to monitor insect populations. You may also make additional releases every 2-3 weeks in the busy season. Additionally, discontinue all pesticide use and avoid even organically approved spray options.
Developing permanent habitats reduces your need for successive releases of pollinators. Include perennial native plants, such as goldenrod, near the end of the bloom season, so your flowers provide nectar for days and weeks. At the end of my third season of providing overwintering shelters, my populations of pollinators were self-sustaining. These long-term habitat investments are how you create natural balance.
Read the full article: Beneficial Insects Garden Natural Pest Control
