Nature has its own way of handling “situations.” Unfortunately, people like playing gods, and they try to take control over natural processes. Let’s discuss mosquitoes.
The pesky insects invade areas in early spring. All they need is warm weather and water. Everyone hates mosquitoes, and everyone ignores the fact that chemical-packed repellents aren’t the only solution. Have you ever thought of the possibility to use plants that attract dragonflies to get rid of mosquitoes? That’s how nature works.
Dragonflies do wonders when it comes to controlling mosquitoes and other insects.
Dragonflies and mosquito control
Dragonflies are really important when it comes to controlling mosquito populations. They eat both mosquitoes and their larvae. So, it’s time to get those dragonflies near your home!
10 plants that attract dragonflies
You will need trees, shrubs and other types of plants. Young dragonflies will need somewhere to hide. Dragonflies also like to prey on pollinators such as butterflies, beetles, wasps, moths and other tiny insects. In other words, you will have to plant blooming plants, too. Water plants that grow near and within ponds are also beneficial.
Land plants
Dragonflies mate and lay their eggs in water, so you will have to consider building a pond in your backyard. There are other ways to attract dragonflies. Use the following plants to increase the number of dragonflies in your backyard
1. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hitra)
It attracts butterflies and pollinators. The wildflowers thrive for a couple of years in warm areas, and die off in winter. Black-eyed Susan adapts to every type of soil, and likes full sunlight and regular watering.
2. Swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)
It’s a close relative to common milkweed. Swamp milkweed has white and pink flowers that grow back every year. The perennial plant attracts dragonfly prey and grows well in moist and sunny areas.
3. Joe-Pye Weed (Eupatorium purpureum)
It’s pale pink-purple flowers grow in mid-summer and fall. Joe-Pye Weed attracts prey, and can grow 3-12 feet high. The flowers release mild vanilla fragrance that gets more intense when crushed. The plant likes full/partial sunlight and grows in moist woods and meadows. Use dried roots and flowers to make diuretic tea.
4. Meadow sage (Salvia marcus)
It’s a perennial plant with gorgeous purple flowers. It likes full sun but also grows well in partial shade. Pick spots that offer morning sun and afternoon shade. Once fully grown, the plant doesn’t need too much water, and thrives well in drought. However, the lack of water may cause problems.
5. White yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
The perennial wildflower has big clusters with 20-25 flowers. It’s disease resistant and attracts butterflies and parasitic wasps. White yarrow likes full sun, dry to medium moisture and well-drained soil.
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