BENEFICIAL BUGS AND WHY WE SHOULD KEEP THESE
Living in Africa means that we live alongside a whole host of bugs inside and outside the home. Some are beneficial bugs but some insects are so problematic that the only way we can eradicate these is by calling on the experts to take care of the problem and for expert advice.
Predatory insects kill other insects and eat their victim’s bodies. Spiders, predatory beetles such as ladybird beetles, ant lions, ants, praying mantis, wasps, predatory flies, lacewings, predatory mites and nematodes are some significant predatory insects.
Lady Bugs
These insects are not only pretty to look at – they are pretty awesome little warriors in the garden, too.
Ladybugs can eat up to sixty problematic aphids in a single day and nurture and protect plants from destructive insects.
Praying Mantis
The praying mantis is a regal insect that cleans up the garden by killing insects that love to eat vegetables; it is a good idea to keep these little hard-working soldiers to be as they are hard at work keeping problematic insects away.
Spiders
Spiders belong to the arachnid species and although many of us are afraid of these eight-legged creatures, they keep mosquitoes and other unwelcome insects under control. Obviously, there are some spider species that should not be left alone, such as the black widow spiders which are poisonous and could cause harm to humans and pets – call your specialist pest control expert to eradicate poisonous spiders.
Lace Wings
Yes, they are minute, and yes, they are incredible at keeping other unpleasant and harmful bugs in check! This minuscule bug is responsible for the eliminations of caterpillars, whitefly and aphids – all in one tiny little insect.
Butterflies
Butterflies are beautiful and come in myriad shapes and colours. These lovely insects are excellent pollinators in orchards, vegetable gardens and flower gardens.
Ground Beetles
Ground beetles eat the seeds of weeds.
There is a whole host of beneficial insects out there. Encouraging beneficial insects into your garden is vital if you are to successfully grow organic fruit and vegetables. Helpful insects assist in controlling pests, rejuvenate the soil, and pollinate plants; all these are an essential function for many food plants to produce food.