Page 1 of 1[1]
Lady Bug Use
| Member | Message |
|---|---|
 |
Posted: May/12/2008 5:35 PM PST
Hello, I've read more good about Lady Bugs than Bad. Does anyone know a good place to get Native Maryland Lady Bugs, since some Lady Bugs sound like they are aggressive. I would like to release some in my garden for control of other pests. I also do not want to use any pesticides, because of dogs, cats, children, and people in general. Thanks for your concern, Gail (Potatochip13) |
 |
Posted: May/13/2008 6:18 AM PST
I always use insect predators in my gardens instead of pesticides. I have no idea where to get native ladybeetles, try calling your local extension, they might know. I released some that I bought at the nursery 5 years ago, and I still see lots every year. I would also suggest buying some Praying Mantis egg cases. They'll eat the bugs that are too big for the Lady Bugs. You should only need to buy the egg cases once. They will breed for you! I will usually find 4 or more cases in the gardens every year after I bought them 5 years ago! I've also heard about Lacewings, but haven't tried those yet. |
 |
Posted: May/14/2008 7:01 AM PST
This is interesting. I also wanted to buy some lady bugs for release, but wondered if they would just migrate away... is there any secret to keeping them in your yard? |
 |
Posted: May/14/2008 9:30 AM PST
I have never used them but I've read that you need to wet all the foliage in your yard because they go in search of water when released. Then they'll stay. |
|
|
Posted: May/14/2008 12:34 PM PST
The three most important things to do to keep your ladybugs in your gardens 1. wet the foliage- they need to drink too! 2. release them in the evening- that way they stay for the night and will probably stay for the day too 3. most importantly- make sure you actually have a food source for them!!!! If you don't have the insects that they like to eat in your gardens, they won't stay! They eat more than just aphids, many times the adults will eat nectar too! |
Page 1 of 1[1]
Read Next Discussion
