In addition to keeping plenty of top-quality grass seed and fertilizer on hand, having a good insect control plan in place is one of the best things you can do to care for your lawn. However, many people are surprised to learn that, in addition to those insects known to be harmful to landscaping, there are many that can benefit your lawn. To find out more about which of these critters you can welcome onto your property, take a look at the information below.

What Insects Are Good for Your Lawn?

1. Ladybugs

Coccinellidae, better known as ladybugs, are a group of small beetles known for their attractive spotted carapaces. Many ladybug species are carnivorous, and can consume dozens of aphids, fruit flies, thrips, mites, and other destructive pests in a single day. They usually make their homes in trees, shrubs, hedges, and gardens near colonies of grass seed-eating aphids and other soft-bodied insects. If you see them scuttling around your property, you can rest easy knowing they’re feasting on pests that can damage your plants and grass.

2. Mantises

A mantis is an insect belonging to any of 17 species found in North America. Ranging in size from one to six inches, these distinctive, green or brown carnivores are also called “praying mantises” due to the distinctive posture of their front legs. Mantises are prodigious eaters, and they prey on many insects that harm plants and spread disease.

However, mantises are top predators in the insect world, and as such don’t discriminate between harmful and beneficial bugs. As a result, an overabundance of mantises can be bad for your lawn, since they may eat insects that would otherwise help your plants thrive.

3. Ground Beetles

Also called “caterpillar hunters,” ground beetles are nocturnal predators that hunt soft-bodied insects like aphids, moth and beetle larvae, cutworms, and caterpillars. Ranging in color from blue to black or brown, they spend most of their time sheltering in concealed areas such as under stones, yard debris, and containers or bags of soil and other gardening supplies.

If you’re looking for grass seed or other landscaping supplies, stop by Oakley Professional Products, formerly T & N, in Foristell, MO. They offer an extensive selection of lawn care goods including seed, fertilizer, and weed control products for lawn and gardening enthusiasts throughout the area. Call (636) 673-2505 to speak with a representative, and visit their website to learn more.