May 17, 2017 Gardening Minute.

May 17, 2017

This is Jason Lamb with your Gardening Minute.

Have you ever considered that not all insects are bad? Many insects have a specific job that help the environment. Termites, ants, flies, and others actually clean up the environment and do a lot of the jobs we couldn’t do. In the garden there are many insects like the lady bug that are great for defending against aphids, leaf hoppers, and whiteflies. These insects are called Beneficial’s.  

Beneficial insects control other insects. Ladybugs, green lace wings, assassin bugs, parasitic wasps, praying mantids, and others can be ordered over the internet to control specific pests. Beneficial’s are the most effective in greenhouse situations and larger more permanent gardens.  

Gardens should be set up to attract Beneficial’s. The right climate, adequate food sources, and their environment should be considered. It is important to remember that most insecticides kill all insects and should be used sparingly or not at all when Beneficial’s are around. Other controls like soapy water, dormant oil, and BT are some alternatives that can be used with Beneficial’s.   

If you would like more information on using Beneficial’s please contact the Extension office at 461-0562. We will be hosting a lawn care and Gardening Care Workshop on June 15^th at the Extension Office at 6pm open to the public. This has been your Gardening Minute with Jason Lamb your Quay County Ag. Extension Agent. Where are programs are open to everyone.