Welcome to my gardening corner! I'm Dave Thompson, a professional gardener based in Staffordshire, and I've spent over 15 years nurturing gardens across the Midlands. Today, I'm excited to share a project that's both rewarding and beneficial for your garden: building a lacewings house. Lacewings are fantastic allies in the garden, helping to control aphid populations naturally. Let's dive into how you can create a welcoming home for these beneficial insects.
Quick Answer
To build a lacewings house, gather materials like a wooden box, straw, and corrugated cardboard. Assemble these into a compact shelter and place it in a sheltered spot in your garden.
Why Invite Lacewings?
Lacewings are known for their appetite for aphids, mites, and other garden pests. By providing a habitat for them, you encourage a natural pest control method, reducing the need for chemical treatments. This can lead to a healthier garden environment.
- Natural pest control, reducing chemical usage
- Support biodiversity in your garden
- Simple and cost-effective to build
Materials Needed
Before you start, gather the following materials:
- A wooden box or an old birdhouse
- Straw or dried grass
- Corrugated cardboard
- Weather-resistant paint (optional)
- Wire or twine for hanging
Step-by-Step Construction Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Box
If you're using an old birdhouse, ensure it’s clean and the entrance is large enough for lacewings. A box approximately 20cm x 15cm x 10cm works well. Paint the exterior with weather-resistant paint if desired, allowing it to blend into your garden while protecting it from the elements.
Step 2: Fill with Insulation
Fill the box with straw or dried grass to provide insulation and hiding spaces. Add strips of corrugated cardboard as lacewings love to hide in the grooves. Ensure the materials are packed loosely to allow insects to move freely.
Step 3: Positioning the House
Place the lacewings house in a sheltered position, such as under the eaves of a garden shed or a tree. It should be at least 1 metre off the ground to protect from predators and moisture. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent overheating.
When to Install Your Lacewings House
| Month | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| March - April | Set up house | Ideal time as lacewings emerge from hibernation |
| September - October | Check and clean | Prepare for overwintering |
Maintenance Tips
To keep your lacewings house in top condition, follow these tips:
- Check periodically for moisture and replace damp materials
- Clean out debris in early spring before lacewings become active
- Ensure the house remains secure and stable
Frequently Asked Questions
Do lacewings houses attract other insects?
Yes, they may also attract other beneficial insects like ladybirds, which can further help in pest control.
Can I paint my lacewings house?
Yes, painting the exterior with non-toxic, weather-resistant paint is fine. It helps protect the structure from the elements.
Where should I avoid placing the lacewings house?
Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or areas prone to heavy rain exposure, as this can deter lacewings from using it.