One of the key principles of organic gardening is creating a balanced ecosystem where beneficial insects can thrive. These beneficial insects help control the population of bad bugs, such as aphids, mites, and caterpillars, without the need for harmful pesticides. By planting certain flower families in your garden, you can attract these beneficial insects and create a natural defense against pests. Here are some of the best flower families for attracting beneficials:
1. Umbelliferae Family:
Plants in this family include caraway, coriander/cilantro, dill, fennel, Bishop’s flower, Queen Anne’s Lace, and toothpick ammi. This family is known for its umbrella-shaped flower clusters, which attract a wide range of beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. These insects prey on aphids, caterpillars, and other garden pests.
2. Asteraceae Family:
Also known as the daisy family, plants in this family include sunflowers, marigolds, daisies, and asters. These flowers attract beneficial insects such as hoverflies, which feed on aphids and other small insects. The bright colors and open flower shape of Asteraceae plants make them highly attractive to beneficial insects.
3. Lamiaceae Family:
This family includes herbs like mint, lavender, thyme, and basil. These plants produce fragrant flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. Bees are essential for pollination, and their presence in the garden helps maintain a healthy ecosystem. Additionally, some Lamiaceae plants, like lavender, repel certain pests such as fleas and moths.
4. Apiaceae Family:
Plants in this family, also known as the carrot family, include parsley, celery, and carrots. These flowers attract beneficial insects like hoverflies, soldier beetles, and parasitic wasps. These insects prey on aphids, caterpillars, and other harmful pests in the garden.
5. Brassicaceae Family:
This family includes plants like broccoli, cabbage, kale, and mustard greens. The flowers of these plants attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. These insects help control the population of pests like aphids, caterpillars, and cabbage worms, which are common pests in the vegetable garden.
By incorporating these flower families into your garden, you can provide a habitat and food source for beneficial insects, attracting them to your garden and creating a natural balance. It’s important to note that different beneficial insects are attracted to different plants, so it’s beneficial to have a diverse range of flowers in your garden to attract a variety of beneficials.
