Slugs love hostas, so you’re definitely not alone! They tend to feed at night or during damp weather, which is why the leaves can suddenly end up full of holes.
If you’re looking to avoid chemical slug pellets, one of the most effective natural controls is beneficial nematodes.
For garden slugs, look for Phasmarh...
If you’re planting for ladybirds and other beneficial insects, you don’t need a wildflower meadow. Many common garden plants are excellent for attracting them.
Some of my favourites are:
* 🌸 Lavender
* 🌼 Marigolds (Calendula)
* 🌸 Cosmos
* 🌼 Yarrow
* 🌸 Verbena
* 🌼 Coreopsis
* 🌸 Catmint (Nepeta)
* 🌼 Ox-eye d...
Blackfly and greenfly are both types of aphids, and yes, ladybirds are one of their best natural predators.
If you’re buying ladybirds, I’d usually recommend larvae rather than adults. The larvae can’t fly away, so they stay on the plant where you place them and immediately start feeding on aphids. Adults are excell...
It depends on the beneficial insect and whether there’s enough food for them.
Many beneficial insects will stay if they can find prey, pollen, nectar or suitable shelter. If there’s nothing to eat, they’re much more likely to move on in search of food.
Some insects, like ladybirds and lacewings, can fly well and ...
Yes, in many cases they can be used together, but it depends on what you’re trying to achieve.
Amblyseius cucumeris is mainly used as a preventative predator for young thrips larvae and can also feed on pollen, helping it establish before pests become a problem.
Amblyseius andersoni is more of a generalist. It wi...