Beneficial Green Lacewings: Nature’s Pest Control Allies
Introduction
Every gardener knows the friendly ladybug, but many are unaware of the hidden helpers lurking in their gardens: green lacewings. These tiny insects are just as effective at combating pests as ladybugs, and they’re a natural and chemical-free solution.
What are Green Lacewings?
Green lacewings are insect predators that measure about half to three-quarters of an inch long. They have delicate, green wings that give them their name, as well as long antennae and gold or copper eyes. Many different species of green lacewings exist, but they all look very similar. Their larvae, or baby lacewings, are flat and alligator-like in appearance.
What Do Green Lacewings Eat?
Green lacewings are generalist predators, meaning they’re not picky eaters. They will prey on a wide range of pests, including:
- Mealybugs
- Psyllids
- Thrips
- Mites
- Whiteflies
- Aphids
- Caterpillars
- Leafhoppers
Lacewings also feed on insect eggs, nectar, pollen, and honeydew. Larval lacewings are especially voracious predators, eating over 200 prey insects each week!
Green Lacewings in the Garden
Using green lacewings for pest control is a common practice in home gardens and greenhouses. They often appear on their own after the spring breeding season, when they scatter far and wide to lay their eggs. Look for little eggs hanging from thin, thread-like spindles on the undersides of plant leaves—these distinctive eggs belong to the green lacewing.
Benefits of Green Lacewings
Green lacewings provide numerous benefits for gardeners:
- They control a wide range of pests without the use of harmful chemicals.
- They help maintain a healthy balance in the garden ecosystem.
- They attract other beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps.
- They improve plant health by reducing pest damage.
- They are easy to encourage and maintain in the garden.
How to Encourage Green Lacewings
To attract and encourage green lacewings to your garden, you can:
- Avoid using broad-spectrum pesticides, which can harm beneficial insects.
- Plant a variety of flowers, especially those that bloom in the spring and summer.
- Provide water sources, such as shallow dishes filled with water, to attract lacewings and other beneficial insects.
- Build insect hotels or provide nesting boxes for lacewings.
- Allow some pests to remain in your garden, as this will provide food for lacewings and other beneficial predators.
Conclusion
Green lacewings are valuable allies in the garden, providing natural and effective pest control. By encouraging these beneficial insects, you can create a healthier and more sustainable garden ecosystem.
