In the mankind of horticulture and landscaping , one common pestilence that can wreak havoc on our beloved industrial plant is the blackfly . These small worm , also know as aphids , have a voracious appetite for the sap of plant and can apace procreate , leading to an infestation if leave ungoverned . However , nature has provided us with some incredible allies in the battle against blackfly – a variety of beneficial louse that feast on these pesky gadfly .
One such ally is the ladybird , also hump as the ladybug . Ladybirds are well - known for their classifiable red and dark spotted bodies , and they are highly efficient predators of black fly . These bantam beetles pose their egg on plants overrun with black fly and their larvae , know as ladybird larvae , are voracious eater . In fact , it is estimated that a single ladybird beetle can consume several hundred aphids over its lifetime . Witnessing a ladybird larva devouring blackfly on a plant is rightfully a sight to behold .
Another group of good insects that can avail control blackfly populations are hoverflies . These insects are often mistaken for bees or wasps due to their similar visual aspect , but they do not sting . Hoverflies position their eggs near or on blackfly - infested plants , and their larvae , love as hoverfly maggots , are unnerving predators of aphids . These maggots have a ravenous appetence and can guttle magnanimous routine of black fly in a unretentive flow of clock time .
Lacewings are yet another group of insects that prove to be valuable ally in the warfare against blackfly . These delicate creatures have lacy annexe , hence their name , and are often attracted to gardens with aphid problems . Lacewings lay their eggs on plant infested with blackfly , and the larvae , commonly known as aphid lions , emerge and get their feeding frenzy . These larva have sickle - shaped jaws and are implausibly efficient at go through bean aphid and other soft - incarnate pests .
It is truly fascinating to witness the impingement these beneficial worm have on bean aphid population . In my own garden , I have often observed ladybeetle , hoverflies , and lacewings going about their patronage , diligently feasting on aphids and helping to keep their number in check . It is a fantastic example of nature ’s balance and the power of biological controller .
In addition to these natural predator , there are also other methods that can be employed to manage blackfly infestation . Introducing companion plants , such as marigolds or nasturtiums , can help deter blackfly and attract good insects . Regularly inspecting works for signs of aphid infestation and manually move out them can also be in force . In showcase of severe infestation , insecticidal scoop or horticultural oil can be used as a last recourse , but it is authoritative to employ such methods sparingly and with caution to annul harming good insect and other wildlife .
Blackfly infestation can be a frustrating and detrimental job in gardens and landscapes . However , nature has provided us with unbelievable ally in the strain of lady beetle , hoverflies , and lacewings , which are highly effective predators of buffalo gnat . These good insects run a vital part in maintaining the balance of our ecosystem and can avail control aphid population without the penury for harmful chemicals . By creating a welcoming surround for these rude marauder and employing other incorporated pest direction technique , we can successfully manage black fly infestations and enjoy thriving , pestis - gratuitous gardens .
Caroline Bates
