What are alternatives to manmade gardening pesticides? Well there are many. This week I would like discuss Hippodamia convergens otherwise know as Ladybugs!
Ladybugs, the most common of all beneficial insects, these voracious predators feed on aphids, chinch bugs, asparagus beetle larvae, thrips, alfalfa weevils, bean thrips, grape root worms, Colorado potato beetle larvae, whitefly, and mites, as well as many other soft-bodied insects and eggs. Each adult Ladybug consumes about 5,000 aphids. Within 8 to 10 days of release, each female Ladybug lays 10-50 eggs daily on the underside of leaves. In 2-5 days the larvae emerge as dark alligator-like flightless creatures with orange spots. The larvae eat 50-60 aphids per day. After 21 days they pupate and adults emerge in 2-5 days, completing the cycle. Under ideal conditions (temperature 61-82 degrees F; Ladybugs won’t fly when 55 degrees F or lower) several generations may be produced.
I found a great Organic company ( ARBICO Organic ) that ships Ladybugs quickly throughout the Uniteed states. They ship various quantities based on the size of your garden. Using Ladybugs for pest control is great for your garden, the environment and You! It’s also Extremely cost effective, too!
Till Next Week; Happy Gardening!!
