01/18/2026
Let's talk about the beneficial insects. Is anyone utilizing the power of the beneficial insects to avoid the need of chemicals in the garden or for their landscape plant at home when they're able?
Now I'm not going to get on a soapbox about being 💯 unable to use all things because I understand that there are specific needs, places and times for certain applications.
However, just hear me out on the "when you're able to" & "how you & nature can benefit from doing so" for a second. Because we're going to not just talk about but also show a whole lot about this subject matter this coming season here at Serenity Valley.
Take for example this single Lady Bug (lady beetle). Did you know it can consume an average of 50 aphids in a single day. Or averages over 5k in its lifetime.
Even lady beetle lava feeds on the aphids. But aphids aren't the only pest that the lady beetles feasting upon that's preying upon your landscape and gardens, there are many others.
Lady beetles can be attracted into your landscape and gardens by bringing in any of the following items.
Flowers:
Cosmos, dill, fennel, marigolds, sunflowers, yarrow, cilantro, coreopsis, chamomile, sweet alyssum, angelica, mint, and parsley.
Decoy Plants or also called Trap cropping:
Nasturtiums and radishes can attract aphids, which ladybugs then prey on. This is also to provide plant to attract the aphids away from your other plants, such as landscaping and vegetables garden plant.
