Most insects benefit your garden, experts say. Sergejsbelovs | Dreamstime.com

By Adrian St.Onge

‘They’re fascinating’: Master gardener weighs in on Medicine Hat garden pests

Aug 21, 2024 | 4:10 PM

Residents of Medicine Hat have recently expressed concerns on social media about the bugs in their backyard gardens.

While some of those bugs may have adverse effects, master gardener Genevieve Mathieu said that most are actually a major benefit.

She also recommends planting companion plants that have a strong odour attract predatory insects or trap plants, one that is more appealing to pests.

“We want predatory wasps, we want fire fighting fire, we want insects eating insects, we want a healthy balanced ecosystem in our backyard,” Mathieu said.

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“I will plant things that attract those to my yard. We’ve got lots of fragrant herbs, lots of things that have beautiful flowers for pollinators.”

Common wives tales like beer attracting slugs or using cereal to attract ants to another part of the garden is not typically recommended.

The practice could kill beneficial bugs, harm the plants and create soil issues according to Mathieu.

Mathieu estimates that less than 10 per cent of bugs are actually pests, with most providing some benefit at some point in the life cycle.

She encourages anyone questioning if the bug is friend or foe to take a picture and ask an expert, adding that most bugs are just in your garden for a visit.

“I would really encourage people to get curious about the insects that are in their gardens because insects are fascinating,” Mathieu said.

“They’ve been around for so long and we’re still learning about what their role is and their life cycles. I think they’re beautiful and fascinating,” she added.

“Check them out, take some pictures, look into what kinds of services they provide in the garden, rather than dismissing them as outright enemies”

Mathieu recommends that Hatters who are curious about the ecosystem in their garden reach out to the local horticulture clubs.

She adds that master gardeners will help define the insects, recommend companion plants and explain how to make your garden more pollinator friendly.