Which insects protect hemp plants?
Why Use Insects in Hemp Gardens?
Anyone who has ever grown hemp knows that it requires a lot of time, effort, and patience. So you can surely imagine the disappointment when pests destroy your plants at the last moment and nullify all your hard work and effort.
There are several common types of pests that love to feast on hemp plants. The most frequent include:
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aphids,
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gall midges,
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mites.
One of the easiest ways to get rid of these pests is by using pesticides. However, this is not an option if you are growing hemp organically. Pesticides could also leave chemical traces on buds that would not only ruin the taste but could also harm your health.
Beneficial insects are therefore a better choice for dealing with pests. They create a better environment for hemp plants. They remove pests and care for companion plants, giving hemp a better chance to reach its full potential.
The main advantages of using insects in a hemp garden include:
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protection against pests,
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plant pollination,
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increased biodiversity,
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prevention of disease spread.
Insects that Help Protect Hemp Plants
Among the most popular insect species growers use to protect hemp from pests are:
Ladybugs
Ladybugs are a very reliable pest eliminator. Ladybugs love to feed on aphids, one of the most common garden pests. They can eat up to sixty aphids in a single day. They also consume eggs of moths, beetles, mites, and thrips.
The key to successfully using ladybugs in the garden is to prepare an environment that will attract them to stay. By including suitable plants in the garden surroundings, you provide ladybugs with a reason to stay.
Ladybugs like the following plants:
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chives,
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calendula,
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dill,
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coriander.
Predatory Mites
Predatory mites are an effective biological pest control insect. Their prey are spider mites (generally hated invaders among hemp growers). Predatory mites are attracted to mint, so planting it in the garden can support the occurrence of this very useful insect.
Praying Mantises
Praying mantises are insects known for their predatory nature. They eat various pests, including aphids, flies, moths, and mosquitoes. They love bushy shrubs which they use as shelter and hunting grounds. You can attract them to the garden by planting the following plants:
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basil,
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rosemary,
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lavender.
Earthworms
Unlike the insects mentioned above, earthworms do not help with pest control. However, they provide great benefits to the soil. They break down organic material and aerate the soil, improving water drainage and helping to produce nutrients that fertilize the soil beneath the plants.
Woodlice
Woodlice are a common part of gardens. They are often found under containers or stones. Like earthworms, they feed on decomposing matter and can be a great addition to compost. Woodlice are insatiable, chewing through most things in their path. From dead plants and leaves to dead insects. They are therefore an excellent way to keep a hemp garden clean.
The Key to Protecting Outdoor Hemp Plants
Biodiversity is the key to protecting outdoor hemp plants. Although hemp plants have a certain natural resistance due to high terpene concentration, they are not completely immune to pests. Therefore, it is necessary to frequently check the garden for signs of infestation.
The more life in the garden, the healthier your plants will be. By attracting beneficial insects to the garden, you create a healthy food web and a life oasis where your hemp plants will thrive.
Do you now know how to prevent pests from destroying your harvest? If so, start growing! On our website, you'll find various seed types specially bred for outdoor cultivation!