Beneficial Insects
Beneficial Nematode Chemical Compatibility
Beneficial nematodes are a powerful natural pest control tool, but their effectiveness depends on what else you're applying in your garden. This reference guide breaks down which common garden chemicals are fully compatible with nematodes, which require a one-week waiting period before introducing them, and which need two weeks to clear before it's safe to apply. When in doubt, checking the active ingredients on your product label, and cross-referencing this list, can make the difference between a successful application and a wasted one.
Maximizing Your Fall Garden with Beneficial Insects
Cooler fall temperatures may slow some pests down, but they don't eliminate them, and as long as pests are active, beneficial insects can still do their job. This post highlights four of the best beneficial insects to deploy in the fall garden: green lacewing larvae for tackling aphids, mites, and whiteflies on cool-weather crops; ladybugs for a last push against aphids and scale insects before winter; Trichogramma for controlling caterpillars and moths both in the garden and indoors; and beneficial nematodes for targeting soil-dwelling pests like grubs and fungus gnat larvae below the surface. A fall release not only protects your current harvest but helps set up a healthier garden come spring.!
Green Lacewings for Natural Pest Control
Learn how to use these gentle pollinators and their “aphid lion” larvae to control aphids, whiteflies, and other soft-bodied pests at every life stage, with practical tips for choosing, releasing, and maintaining lacewing populations in gardens, greenhouses, and houseplants.