With spring gardening season now underway, Chattooga County Extension is reminding local gardeners that not every insect in the garden is a bad thing.

Extension officials say spring brings welcome benefits for pollinators, wildlife, and desirable grasses, especially if the area receives much-needed rain. But it also brings the return of garden pests that can damage plants, spread disease, and quickly destroy vegetable crops.

According to Chattooga County Extension, some insects actually play an important role in protecting gardens by helping control harmful pests. Beneficial insects such as lady beetles, lacewings, and parasitic wasps feed on common garden pests like aphids, caterpillars, and other plant-damaging insects, helping reduce the need for chemical pesticides.

Gardeners are encouraged to learn how to identify these helpful insects and take steps to attract them. Extension experts say planting a variety of flowering plants, limiting pesticide use, and creating a healthy garden environment can help keep more of these “good bugs” around throughout the growing season.

The University of Georgia Extension has also provided a detailed guide explaining how to recognize beneficial insects, understand their role in the garden, and manage pest problems more effectively using natural methods.

Find out more HERE