Ladybug Houses  (7 Ladybug Houses)

Ladybugs, also called ladybirds or lady beetles, are the most well known of all beneficial insects. These critters feed on smaller soft-bodied insects such as aphids, as well as others which are harmful to plants. Because ladybugs feed on pests, they are often considered the garden's best friend.

In the spring, ladybugs become active and can often be found in gardens and fields. Attract them into your garden with vector flowers such as angelica and dill, weeds like dandelions, wild carrot, or yarrow, and a combination of whey and yeast ("Wheast"). A commercial ladybug attractant may also serve your purpose well. You can encourage ladybugs to stay in your garden by providing ladybug houses. Ladybugs generally spend winters hibernating together in protected hiding places such as logs, buildings, rock crevices, or ground cover. Ladybug houses create safe havens that mimic natural hiding places where ladybugs might spend the winter months or lay their eggs so that their young may metamorphose in a protected place. Remember to use only ladybug-friendly pesticides, and your ladybugs will help keep your garden looking great every year.