Insects such as lady beetles and praying mantids, which can be purchased for release in the landscape, are already present in most areas. Even if bought and released, they will not necessarily survive or stay around. Plant-feeding insects must be present to provide a food source for the beneficial insects.
You can encourage natural pest enemies by: 1) allowing small numbers of pests to be present—they will attract natural enemies; 2) learning to recognize natural enemies, such as lacewings and lady beetle larvae; 3) using insecticides only to quell outbreaks, and then using selective insecticides when possible; and 4) providing nectar and pollen sources to meet the nutritional needs of beneficial insects so that they will be attracted to the area.
