If we leave it be, nature has its own ways of dealing with things in its own course. The interactions that occur for that to happen are some of the most wonderous we’ll ever see, if we pay attention. Such is the case with making use of natural and native plants to attract dragonflies, which works for mosquito control. And, in Texas, we’re often known for some monstrous mosquito problems!
Dragonflies are the most innovative natural way to effectively deal with mosquitos. In a place where these blood-hungry bugs are just waiting for you to want to sit out on your porch at night, swarms of dragonflies are truly appreciated. They consume both the flying mosquitos who hum and buzz around you, just waiting for their moment to strike, as well as the larvae from which they hatch. A recent study determined that adult dragonflies have been known to consume nearly 100 mosquitoes each day! Here are three species of plants we can make use of here in Texas which will attract dragonflies for mosquito population control.
Photo: Pixabay
The black-eyed susan is a bright yellow flower that attracts pollinators, which also attracts dragonflies (because hey… everything has to eat). These flowers have a normal life cycle of approximately two years, and have been known to die off when cooler winter temperatures strike. They’re perfect for the warmer temperatures that parts of Central and South Texas are known to maintain (for the most part). They are hardy and have been known to adapt well in several soil types. They also require regular watering and full sunlight, and we generally have plenty of the latter!
Photo: Pixabay
A gorgeous perennial, meadow sage has brilliant purple flowers which attract pollinators and additional small insects. It does best in full sun but also has been known to thrive in partial shade. A particular bonus with this plant is that once it’s well established, it doesn’t need much water to survive. Drought conditions haven’t been known to dissuade it from taking root. However, it still could make use of a good watering now and then. It will attract dragonflies as long as it attracts those species of insects that it feeds on, which is great for a piece of Texas property!
Photo: Pexels
As far as plants that survive in water, the water lily is a dragonfly magnet. This floating plant loves water (obviously) and makes for a top-notch larvae locale for the adult dragonflies. For additional details on how a water lily plant can be started in pots below the surface of the water, visit the link available here. Those of you without ponds but with simple water features can still have water lilies, and they make for attractive additions to your property. You can even make use of decorative rocks to keep the plants submerged, which often looks natural when all is said-and-done.
