Ladybugs - FAQs

Do ants affect how ladybugs will work for aphid control?
Yes. Ants protect aphid colonies to farm the sweet substance called honeydew from the aphids. Ants will relocate aphid colonies, or attack adult ladybugs and larvae to drive them away. It's best to treat the area for ants before releasing beneficial predators for aphid pest control.

Will neem oil or insecticidal soap hurt my ladybugs?
Yes. Neem oil or insecticidal soaps can harm ladybugs, especially larvae, if applied directly or while ladybugs are actively foraging on treated leaves. It's best to apply it several days before or after releasing ladybugs to avoid direct contact.

What's the difference between a ladybug, a ladybird, and a lady beetle?
Nothing biologically. They're all common names for the same family of beetles (Coccinellidae). "Ladybird" is more common in British English, "lady beetle" is the more scientifically neutral term entomologists tend to use, and "ladybug" is the everyday American term. Our Hippodamia convergens ladybugs go by all three.

Where can I buy ladybugs for my garden?
Right here at NaturesGoodGuys. Ladybugs ship directly to your door in quantities sized for anything from a small backyard bed to a larger garden or greenhouse.

Are ladybugs actually native to the U.S.?
Yes. Hippodamia convergens is native to North America and can be found across most of the United States.

Will ladybugs get rid of whiteflies?
Ladybugs will feed on whitefly eggs and early-instar nymphs, but they're not a whitefly specialist the way they are with aphids. For a heavy, established whitefly infestation, pairing ladybugs with a whitefly-focused predator or parasitoid wasp will get you faster results than ladybugs alone.

Why don't I see my ladybugs after release?
Released adults spread out across the area and may leave it if aphid populations are low, temperatures are unfavorable, or the area lacks shelter and moisture. For best results, release near active pest populations and provide plants with adequate moisture and shelter.