As an expert in entomology, I can provide you with some strategies to attract ladybugs to your garden. Ladybugs, also known as ladybirds or Coccinellidae, are beneficial insects that feed on aphids and other pests, making them a gardener's friend. Here's how you can encourage them to visit and possibly reside in your garden:


1. Plant a Diverse Garden: Ladybugs are attracted to a variety of plants, especially those that are known to attract aphids, as this is their primary food source. Marigold, dill, fennel, and cosmos are good choices.


2. Avoid Pesticides: Ladybugs are sensitive to chemicals. Using organic methods for pest control will help maintain a healthy population of these beneficial insects.


3. Provide Shelter: Ladybugs need places to hide during the winter. Stacked stones, brush piles, or even a simple ladybug house can provide shelter.


4. Water Sources: Ensure there is a clean water source available. Ladybugs, like all creatures, need water to survive.


5. Release Timing: If you're purchasing ladybugs, release them in the evening or early morning when temperatures are cooler to reduce stress.


6. Patience: Attracting ladybugs can take time. Continue to maintain a healthy garden ecosystem, and they will likely find their way to your plot.

read more >>

Along with insects, ladybugs also look for pollen for a food source, so there are numerous plants you can grow to help attract them. Flowers and herbs such as cilantro, dill, fennel, caraway, yarrow, tansy, angelica, scented geraniums, coreopsis and cosmos are good choices for luring the ladybug.read more >>