Embracing insects in the garden can help support diverse ecosystems and maintain plant health.
Chris Baraniuk reports for BBC.
In short:
- The UK's Royal Horticultural Society explains that insects can defoliate plants without significant damage, contributing to natural trade-offs within ecosystems.
- With global insect populations declining by up to 2% annually, planting to support both pollinators and herbivores is crucial.
- Gardening for insects encourages beneficial predators, such as birds, and supports the entire food chain.
Why this matters:
By embracing insects as part of a balanced garden ecosystem, gardeners can help protect declining insect populations, which play a vital role in pollination and biodiversity. Read more: Pesticides are becoming increasingly toxic for the world's most important insects.
