Dragonflies are some of the best predators to keep mosquito populations low. Not only do they scavenge the skies in adulthood, but they eat large numbers of mosquito larvae in their larval form--which happens in the water. One study found that dragonfly larvae could play a significant role in the regulation of mosquito populations. While they are most effective in their larval stage, adult dragonflies can still eat up to 100, if not many more, mosquitoes per day. Not only do dragonflies control mosquito populations - they help control other bugs, too, like midges.
Attracting dragonflies to your garden and backyard requires planting a diverse array of plants. Planting trees and shrubs around the perimeter of the yard will provide adequate hiding spots for young dragonflies. Blooming plants also attract pollinators, like butterflies, beetles, wasps, moths and other small flying insects, that dragonflies love to prey on. Water plants that grow near and within ponds are also highly sought out by dragonflies.
While building a backyard pond is the best way to attract dragonflies as they mate and lay their eggs in water, you can still attract dragonflies through other means. Planting flowers that attract prey for dragonflies will bring them to your garden indirectly. Here are five plants you can grow to attract more dragonflies into your backyard.
