Our Farmgirl was happy to capture this picture of a ladybug on our cabbage because she know it is a "beneficial" insect. It is an indicator of the health of our farm that we have native beneficial insects keeping the harmful insects at bay.
The wonderful insects that dine only on landscape pests and don't harm good bugs or plants are called 'beneficials', and ladybugs definitely fall into this category—but not the way many people think.
The spotted red 'ladybug' we all know so well (which is really a beetle) does dine on the occasional aphid and other soft-bodied pest, but like many insects, it doesn't really eat all that much in it's adult form.
It's the ladybug's larvae that are voracious predators of soft-bodied problem insects, especially aphids.
As you know, you may see the occasional insect on the vegetables in your box. They love our food too! Take the time to investigate and use it as an educational experience.
Enjoy your veggies this week!
We'll keep farming for you!
Reuben and Tessa DeMaster
Willow Haven Farm
