As warm sunshine bathes the countryside an army of silent predators are awakening from their winter hibernation. I spotted these two busily searching for Aphids in a mint crop this morning.
Don’t underestimate the value of your indigenous beneficial insects, Ladybirds (Coccinellidae) are voracious predators capable of consuming in excess of 100 aphids per day!
Establishing flowering plants around crop areas will provide a refuge and food source for beneficial insects when crops are not present or food is scarce, Ladybirds are attracted to plants with flat topped flowers such as umbelliferous species, some plants ladybirds prefer include: Angelica, Chives, Coriander, Dill, Fennel, Marigold, and Yarrow.
Also consider hibernation areas; Ladybirds over-winter as adults choosing sheltered areas to hibernate such as hedgerows and field margins rich in leaf litter or below tree bark.
UK farmers can also access funding to help provide favourable habitats such as flower-rich margins and plots which encourage beneficial insects around the farm, countryside stewardship grants are currently available.
https://www.gov.uk/countryside-stewardship-grants/flower-rich-margins-and-plots-ab8