Gardens thrive when helpful insects feel at home. From ladybugs that feast on aphids to dragonflies that keep mosquito populations in check, the right mix of plants can create a welcoming space for these tiny allies. A balanced garden supports natural pest control and pollination. Here are 25 excellent plant choices, whether you're working with containers or full garden beds, to help you build a thriving, insect-friendly space.
1. Yarrow
Yarrow is a hardy perennial that blooms clusters of small flowers, making it ideal for attracting ladybugs and lacewings. It provides nectar while also serving as shelter for predatory insects. Yarrow is drought-tolerant and grows well in poor soil, making it a low-maintenance choice. Its feathery leaves also add texture to garden beds. Yarrow's long bloom time supports beneficial insects throughout the growing season. It can also be used as a natural ground cover.
2. Coneflower (Echinacea)
Coneflowers are bold, sturdy perennials that attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles. Their large blooms provide a food source and landing pad for many helpful insects. Coneflowers grow well in full sun and are tolerant of drought once established. In addition to their visual appeal, they help support healthy ecosystems. They bloom from midsummer to fall, offering long-term nectar access. Coneflowers also produce seeds that birds enjoy after blooming ends.
3. Dill
Dill is a favorite among ladybugs because it produces umbrella-shaped flowers that offer easy access to nectar. This herb is also known to attract lacewings and parasitic wasps, both of which help keep pest populations in check. Gardeners appreciate dill not just for its pest-fighting powers but also for its culinary uses. It grows well in full sun and well-drained soil. Dill's airy flowers provide a perfect landing space for tiny helpful insects. It self-seeds easily, making it a reliable addition to pollinator gardens.
4. Sunflower
Sunflowers are tall, bold plants that attract a wide range of beneficial insects, including ladybugs and dragonflies. Their large heads provide both food and shelter for pollinators and predators. Sunflowers grow well in full sun and can tolerate dry conditions. They also attract birds, which help with insect control. Plant sunflowers at the back of beds to create natural perches. Their long blooming period supports garden helpers over many weeks.
5. Tansy
Tansy produces button-like yellow flowers that are rich in nectar and attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps. Its strong scent helps deter pests like ants and flies. Tansy prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can become invasive, so it's best to monitor its growth. This plant also provides shelter and resting spots for adult insects. It is ideal for use along borders or near compost piles. Gardeners should avoid planting it near edible crops due to its toxic properties.
6. Sweet Alyssum
Sweet alyssum forms low-growing clusters of tiny white or purple flowers that are highly attractive to hoverflies and ladybugs. These insects feed on the nectar and help control aphids and other soft-bodied pests. Sweet alyssum grows well in cool weather and is often used as a ground cover or between rows of vegetables. It adds visual interest and provides ongoing food for helpful bugs. The plant has a pleasant scent and blooms for a long period. It is perfect for filling gaps in garden beds.
7. Coreopsis
Coreopsis, or tickseed, is a bright and cheerful flower that brings in ladybugs and pollinators with its long-lasting blooms. It thrives in sunny areas and handles poor soil well, making it a low-maintenance choice. Coreopsis provides nectar throughout the season, supporting the insect population over time. Its compact form works well in both containers and garden beds. This plant also helps improve biodiversity in garden spaces. Deadheading spent flowers encourages even more blooming.
8. Fennel
Fennel draws a wide range of beneficial insects, including ladybugs, hoverflies, and parasitic wasps. Its large, flat flower heads are ideal for nectar feeding. While fennel should not be planted near certain vegetables due to allelopathic effects, it works well in dedicated pollinator or herb gardens. Fennel’s tall stalks also offer perching spots for dragonflies. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate dry conditions. This herb’s strong scent can also help deter some garden pests.
9. Goldenrod
Goldenrod produces dense yellow flower clusters that support pollinators and predators alike. It is especially important for late-season beneficial insects such as hoverflies and dragonflies. Despite its reputation, goldenrod does not cause allergies; ragweed is the true culprit. Goldenrod grows in a wide range of soils and prefers sunny conditions. It spreads easily, so it is best placed where it has room to grow. This plant helps extend food availability into the fall.
10. Calendula
Calendula, also known as pot marigold, attracts hoverflies, ladybugs, and lacewings with its bright blooms. It grows well in containers or garden beds and prefers cooler seasons. Calendula also helps repel harmful insects, creating a balanced garden environment. Its flowers are edible and often used in herbal remedies. Calendula blooms for months if deadheaded regularly. It also adds a splash of color while working hard behind the scenes.
11. Cilantro (Coriander)
When allowed to flower, cilantro becomes a powerful attractor for ladybugs, parasitic wasps, and hoverflies. Its small white flowers are easy for tiny insects to access. Cilantro grows best in cooler seasons and can bolt quickly in hot weather. Once it does, its flowers still provide ecological value. Cilantro pairs well with other herbs in pollinator gardens. It also improves soil health by encouraging beneficial microbial life.
12. Lavender
Lavender draws in pollinators like bees and butterflies, which in turn help attract dragonflies looking for prey. It also provides nectar for hoverflies and parasitic wasps. Lavender prefers well-drained soil and full sun, thriving in dry climates. Its scent repels some harmful pests, helping protect nearby plants. Lavender is long-lived and blooms repeatedly through the growing season. It also adds structure and fragrance to garden beds.
13. Black-Eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susans are hardy perennials that support pollinators and attract dragonflies with the insects that come to visit. They grow well in sunny areas and tolerate a range of soil types. Their bright yellow flowers with dark centers bloom for weeks. These blooms serve as a food source and perching site for flying predators. Black-eyed Susans help maintain healthy garden ecosystems. They are also deer-resistant, making them easy to maintain.
14. Aster
Asters provide late-season nectar, making them valuable for hoverflies, bees, and butterflies. Their flowers come in many shades, from purple to pink to white, attracting a wide range of beneficial insects. Asters grow well in sunny or lightly shaded areas. They bloom in the fall, when other nectar sources are scarce. This helps sustain insect populations before winter. Asters also add height and color to garden borders.
15. Queen Anne's Lace
Queen Anne's lace is a wildflower known for its large, flat clusters of tiny white blooms that attract ladybugs and parasitic wasps. It is a member of the carrot family, offering easy nectar access to helpful insects. The plant grows easily in poor soils and full sun. It also supports swallowtail butterflies during their larval stage. Though often considered a weed, it serves important ecological roles. Gardeners can manage its spread with regular pruning.
16. Bee Balm (Monarda)
Bee balm produces bright, tubular flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hoverflies. These insects help bring in dragonflies by creating a rich feeding environment. Bee balm thrives in moist, sunny spots and is resistant to deer. It blooms mid to late summer, offering color and nectar when other flowers fade. Its strong scent can also help deter some pests. Bee balm spreads by rhizomes and fills in garden gaps quickly.
17. Angelica
Angelica is a tall, dramatic plant that belongs to the carrot family and supports ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. Its umbrella-shaped flower heads are perfect for nectar feeding. Angelica prefers moist, rich soil and partial shade. It can grow several feet tall, making it a striking background plant. This plant is biennial, so it blooms in its second year. It also supports biodiversity and natural pest control in garden spaces.
18. Parsley
Parsley, when allowed to flower, produces small blooms that attract ladybugs and parasitic wasps. These beneficial insects help control aphids and other pests. Parsley grows best in cooler seasons and does well in containers or beds. It is a dual-purpose plant, valued for both culinary and ecological use. Flowering parsley supports pollinators and even swallowtail caterpillars. Letting a few plants bolt benefits the whole garden.
19. Caraway
Caraway is another member of the carrot family, known for attracting hoverflies, ladybugs, and lacewings. Its delicate flowers offer easy access to nectar. Caraway thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. It also supports beneficial microbes in the soil. This biennial plant adds texture and aroma to herb gardens. Caraway’s flowers are especially useful for early-season insect support.
20. Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal is a low-growing plant that repels harmful insects while attracting hoverflies and parasitic wasps. It grows well in moist, shaded areas and can spread quickly. Due to its potent oils, it should not be ingested but works well as a natural insect deterrent. Pennyroyal blooms with small purple flowers that support nectar-feeding bugs. It is ideal for use in borders or under taller plants. The plant also releases a strong scent when brushed.
21. Chives
Chives bloom with globe-shaped purple flowers that attract hoverflies and other helpful insects. They are easy to grow and thrive in containers or garden beds. Chives prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They also help repel certain harmful pests, like aphids. Allowing chives to flower ensures ongoing nectar support for garden allies. Trim back after blooming to encourage fresh growth.
22. Borage
Borage features star-shaped blue flowers that attract pollinators and beneficial bugs alike. Ladybugs, lacewings, and bees all benefit from its steady nectar supply. Borage grows quickly in full sun and self-seeds easily. Its leaves are edible, though often grown for insect support. Borage improves soil health by adding trace minerals. It is an excellent companion plant in vegetable gardens.
23. Catnip
Catnip is more than a treat for cats; it also helps support hoverflies and parasitic wasps. Its soft purple flowers provide nectar, and its strong scent repels aphids and flea beetles. Catnip grows well in poor soil and full sun. It spreads quickly, so it may need to be contained. Letting catnip flower boosts its value to insect allies. It is often used in organic pest control.
24. Cosmos
Cosmos produce delicate, daisy-like flowers that attract ladybugs and lacewings. These insects help reduce aphid populations in nearby plants. Cosmos thrive in full sun and tolerate poor soil. They bloom from summer into fall, offering long-term nectar support. Their open flower structure is easy for insects to navigate. Cosmos also reseed easily, creating a self-sustaining garden feature.
25. Marigold
Marigolds are known for their bright, cheerful flowers, but they also help bring in helpful insects like ladybugs and hoverflies. They can repel certain harmful bugs while supporting those that control pests naturally. Marigolds grow well in full sun and are very easy to care for. Their scent is strong enough to discourage nematodes and aphids. They bloom all summer, providing a steady food source for insect allies. Use them as borders or in mixed beds for visual and ecological benefits.
Let Nature Do the Work
By planting with beneficial insects in mind, you're creating a garden that practically takes care of itself. Each of these plants supports ladybugs, dragonflies, and other helpful bugs that naturally control pests and support pollination. Whether you're starting small or expanding an established space, adding even a few of these choices can make a noticeable difference. A healthy garden is a balanced one, and inviting nature’s helpers is a step toward a more vibrant, thriving outdoor space.