How to create a dragonfly paradise — and why you should

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Did you know that dragonflies eat mosquitoes, houseflies, and gnats? They’re one insect you definitely want to keep around. Here’s how to attract these beauties to your yard.

Set up a water feature. Dragonflies are aquatic insects that spend most of their time in and around water. They lay their eggs there and like to perch on surrounding vegetation.

Depending on the species, some dragonflies prefer flowing water while others are attracted to standing water. Once you determine which species inhabits your area, you can create a just-right water feature to draw them into your landscape.

Make your water source at least 2 feet deep with shallow sides. This will deter mosquitoes whose larvae survive best in shallow water. Including a bubble or fountain feature will also help ward off mosquitoes.

 

Place vegetation in and around the water. While a water source is an excellent start to your dragonfly paradise, adding some greenery is crucial if you want to keep the dragonflies around. Here’s why.

  • Plants submerged in water protect eggs and nymphs.
  • Partially emerged vegetation allows baby dragonflies on the edge of adulthood a way to get out of the water.
  • Floating plants are natural perches for adults to rest and lay eggs.
  • Plants positioned around the water’s perimeter, also known as marginal vegetation, along with shrubs and trees, provide a resting and roosting spot for adult dragonflies.

Go to page 229 of How To Grow Just About Everything and learn which pollinator plants you need to have in your garden to attract dragonflies, bees, and butterflies. 

 

 

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  • FC&A Staff Writer