These last couple weeks we have learned a lot about different companions on our farm, and how they can be both beneficial and harmful towards our crops. One farm companion that I took a closer look at and learned a lot about in doing my companions report is the common black ground beetle. This beetle is found all over the world and lives in the soil as well as under rocks, leaves and branches. It is also a very beneficial companion that preys on a variety of different insect and mollusk pests, including Aphids, cucumber beetles, caterpillars, slugs, and snails.
There are three major ways to sustainably attract these beetles to our farm. The first is to plant crops with lots of leaves to form canopies over the soil (corn, bell beans, lettuce, carrots, other leafy crops). These canopies provide the ideal habitat for ground beetles as they allow them to hide away from predators out in the open (birds, rodents, toads). Laying down thick organic mulch is also a good way to provide ample shelter and refuge for these beetles. The other major way to encourage more of these companions to live on our farm is to plant nectar producing crops (Alfalfa, squash, broccoli, strawberries, etc). These plants attract airborne predators (yellow jackets/hornets) that drive aphids and other prey closer to the ground. This provides more available food for the common black ground beetle as well as other beneficial ground-dwelling beneficial pest predators.
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