Ladybugs in action: Effective solution against aphids on the balcony!

Ladybugs in action: Effective solution against aphids on the balcony!

A summer in which nature wants to let off steam, including on the balconies of northern Germans! This is also the case with a friend of the author in Emden. He's faced a pesky problem: aphids. These little pests can get onto the balcony either through winged shapes or through ants that have fun transporting their little friends.

In order to stop the infestation, this friend decided to take action and order 100 ladybird larvae of the species Coccinella septempunctata. For a modest 29.99 euros he will now take action against the aphids. Did you know that a single ladybird larva can eat up to 800 aphids before pupating? This is nothing less than a culinary feast for these little beneficial creatures!

Welcome, Ladybug!

The seven-spot ladybirds, as they are also called, are true heroes of biological pest control and not only indulge in aphids, but also other pests such as thrips, leaf beetles and even the eggs of their own species. These beetles are known for their characteristic seven spots on their wings and the two white spots on the chest and head, which give them a distinctive appearance.

The arrival of the ladybird larvae on the balcony is awaited with great excitement, because in just two weeks they are supposed to take active action against the aphids. A reliable plan for success can only be drawn up if chemical pesticides have been avoided beforehand. So if you want to jump on the ladybug bandwagon, you'll have to wait at least six weeks before exposing yourself to these natural allies.

A good hand for nature

A balcony of up to 10 square meters is well supplied with 100 ladybird larvae. For larger areas, such as a 20 square meter balcony, you need 59.98 euros and a whopping number of beetles - at least 150 to clean up properly. A recommendation for all balcony owners: Make sure to provide enough food for the beetles if the aphids are not present in large numbers.

Biological pest control, as practiced in the Botanical Garden in Kiel, is an approach that has been pursued for over 20 years. Here they also rely on beneficial insects and avoid chemicals in order to promote a harmonious biological balance. This is not only environmentally friendly, but also sustainable.

Ladybugs not only help fight annoying pests, they also act as a role model for an environmentally conscious society. So it's no wonder that residents in northern Germany are giving their balconies an upgrade and welcoming the little helpers!

Summer may be in full swing, but the question remains: How many aphids are really on the balconies? And can the use of ladybird larvae be enough to get rid of the pests? Only time will tell.

For detailed information about the possible uses of ladybirds in biological pest control, those interested can take a look at the reports from NWZ online and Plantura throw. If you would like to gain even deeper insights into the practice of biological pest control, you will find helpful information at Kiel Botanical Garden.