Did you know that certain insects can actually help your lawn and garden blossom into an oasis? Though many gardeners are used to seeking out trouble-making insects, there are actually many insects living in and around your lawn that can prove beneficial. So this spring and summer take care not to harm them.
Beneficial insects fall into one of four categories:
• Predatory insects actually feed on other pesky garden insects, such as grubs and mosquitoes. Examples of predatory insects include ladybugs, praying mantises, lacewings, syrphid fly larvae, dragonflies and ground beetles.
• Parasitic insects are usually tiny wasps or flies (such as the tachinid fly larvae) that live in or on pest insects.
• Pollinating insects (which include bees, butterflies and moths) play an essential role in plant reproduction while feeding on nectar or pollen.
• Soil-dwelling insects are vital for many aspects of a healthy soil.
If you think you might have to use a pesticide to deal with an insect pest, check with your local authorities before you do so. Though Health Canada has registered many pesticides for use in Canada, some provinces and municipalities have placed additional restrictions on pesticide use on public and private property.
www.newscanada.com
Source: Life of a Lawn, Health Canada – www.hc-sc.gc.ca
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