Ladybirds, also known as ladybeetles and ladybugs, are natural controllers of aphids, scale insects and mites which otherwise damage plants. Therefore you can be sure that gardens in Walcha that have regular ladybird visitors will have a helping hand remaining healthy this spring.

This is why nearly all cultures believe that ladybirds are lucky and killing one is said to bring sadness and misfortune. The nursery rhyme “Ladybird, ladybird, fly away home” encourages children to catch the beetles and blow them on their way in return for a wish.

The Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife’s Backyard Buddy program provides information on ladybirds.

Foundation CEO Leonie Gale said ladybirds and their larvae gorge themselves on aphids.

“As long as you don’t use chemical sprays, these predators will be there when you need them. Even using low toxic environmentally friendly insecticides, such as pyrethrum or garlic spray to kill aphids, will also kill natural predators like ladybirds. And if the majority of their food source is gone they won’t visit your garden meaning you have to spray again year after year,” she said. “See if you can attract these polka-dotted pals to your garden naturally. Adult ladybeetles are lured by nectar and pollen-bearing plants or you can offer a tasty brew of honey mixed with water and brewer’s yeast. Watering your garden early in the morning offers ladybirds a welcome drink and helps their feet to stick to plants.”

“You can also purchase your own ladybird buddies to help the population become established,” Ms Gale said.