Ladybugs

All through the winter we had ladybugs in the cottage. The onset of warm weather drew them out into the trees to do their most important duties of pest control. For the ladybugs however, it’s more a question of a good day’s meal than any interest in the health of our gardens. I’ve watch a ladybug walk along a plant and gobble up aphids like they were grapes… just like the one in this picture is about to do! (Remember that you can always click on images for a closer view).

If you don’t have ladybugs (also known as ladybird beetles) in your garden, or are having trouble attracting them, you can always purchase ladybugs at your local garden or hardware store, from the Ladybug Guy (Buddy Foley) on 15th Avenue West near the Magnolia Bridge if you live in Seattle, or online at Planet Natural. Planet Natural offers a wide variety of beneficial insects, heirloom and organic seeds, and other natural goodies to keep your gardens healthy and green.